Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
–John 15:13
What could be more loving than to step in between death and another person?
In the United States, on the last Monday in May, we remember the 1.2 million soldiers who have stepped in front of death for us.
When Gideon was building his army (Judges 7), God told him to give his recruits an opportunity to go home if they wanted. And most of them did. But 10,000 men stayed. Those 10,000 had the courage, the built-in God-given love, that empowered them to put their lives at risk for others.
Jesus was God’s recruit.
Though He had angels at His beckoning and unlimited power in His words, He never seized an opportunity to go home. He willingly stepped into battle and laid down His life. He was undoubtedly brave. But the Bible tells us it wasn’t courage that led Him to the cross or courage that kept Him there.
It was love. Love for His disciples; love for the God-hungry people He healed; love for the followers that hung on His words; love for the billions of strangers that hadn’t yet been born, hadn’t even had the chance to seek out the Creator who made them; love for you and me.
Jesus loved all, friends and strangers alike. He even loved His enemies.
We have the undoubted assurance that Jesus laid down His life for us. He loves us, too.
Reflection
Who would I willingly lay down my life for? Do they know and love Jesus?
Prayer
Precious Lord, Thank You for loving me so much that You gave Your all. May I daily give my all to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
The Daily Bible Inspiration emails are coming to an end. Beginning on June 1, our daily devotions, complete with beautiful images and questions to inspire you on your daily walk with Jesus, will only be available in our iOS and Android apps. Though it won't be coming to your in-box, we don't want you to miss out on this valuable resource for Bible study and prayer. Download the app today. Please continue to pray for our ministry, as we continue to develop more tools to take the gospel of Christ "into all the world." Paid email newsletter subscribers will receive a full refund.