Remembering
A Word from Pastor Mark
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12-13
It was just hours before the agony of the crucifixion and Jesus was trying to teach His disciples about the most important things in life. He explained His love for them and now called on His followers to demonstrate this same love to each other.
How does such love happen? It comes through purposeful commitment. It is applied by being willing to lay down our lives for those important to us. It sounds simple—but is born out of a selfless caring and love. When we give up our very lives for someone else, people understand the depth of our love.
This coming Monday is Memorial Day. It is a time to stop and reflect on those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country – for us. They loved to the point of death. I think we should pause and remember their sacrifice and give thanks for our freedom that came at such a very high price.
Now here is a challenge to take this a step further. Do you remember the unbelievable price that Jesus paid for you at the cross? Does His love compel you to lay down your life for others? Then sacrifice your life for someone. Start with your family. Give to your friends. Love your neighbors…even your enemies. This is the heartbeat of Christ. On Memorial Day don’t just look back and remember…begin the practice of sacrificial love.
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