Our scripture this morning is 1 John 4:10-11 (NLT).
This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.
In this passage John combines two of scripture’s most important teachings: God loved us so much He sent His Son to save us (John 3:16) and love one another (John 13:34). Both of these are statements from Jesus Himself, and they mirror what He said is the Greatest Commandment – love God and love one another (Matthew 22:37-39).
When we hear repeated teaching it means two things – first, it is very important. When we are told things multiple times, it is something we really need to know! Second, it sadly reminds us of how stubborn we can be as humans and that telling us once is not enough.
When we accept God’s forgiveness, loving Him and each other is no longer an option, but a way of life. How we thought and acted previously is completely changed. This is the gift Jesus brought us, to be reconnected with our Heavenly Father forever.
Loving Lord, we are sorry for our disobedience and lack of love for our brothers and sisters. Forgive us and bless us to go in Your name to share the gift of salvation with all the world. Amen.
