Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13

As is customary during Holy Week, we take time to reflect on the ultimate act of love which was demonstrated more than two thousand years ago. The fact that Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins is no mean feat. God, in His unconditional love for us, sent His innocent, only begotten Son to stand in our stead. We were undeserving of such mercy, but He made a way for us to be reconciled to Him through the death of His Son. God showed His love for us so while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us according to Romans 5:8.

In this selfish world that we live in, no one would even think of laying down his life for a friend, much less an enemy. Perish the thought! God’s demonstration of this sacrificial love for us should cause our hearts to swell with gratitude, leading to wholehearted love, devotion and worship. There is no greater love than God’s love. Absolutely none can be compared to it.

Dying on a cross in Roman times was the most disgraceful and humiliating form of death, which was reserved for the lowest and vilest of criminals. This greatest act of humiliation suffered by Jesus was produced the greatest act of love, seemingly paradoxical, but steeped in truth.

Let us continue to bask in the greatest love of all. God’s love is unconditional and covenantal. He loves and accepts us flaws and all. His love is eternal and there is nothing that can ever separate us from it. We can confidently rest in that love in which there is no shadow of turning.

As we reflect on His love for us, let it not be just a passing thought. Let us be carriers and reflectors of that love. As we have received so we should freely give to others. Let us walk in His love, loving our neighbours as we love ourselves. In doing so we bring honour and glory to His name for this Easter season and beyond.

Reflection

• How does the knowledge of God’s love affect the way I live?
• How can I demonstrate His love to others?

Prayer

Father, thank you for your sacrificial love that was demonstrated in Jesus’ death on the cross. Thank you that you loved us even when we were your enemies. Help us to accept and walk in that love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

As you go through the rest of Holy Week, meditate on the words of this song.