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But God commends his own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:8, WEBUS

Reflection

Who would you die for? Everyday there are people across the world facing that question. They’ve sworn an oath or taken a job where they must willingly risk their lives to save someone else. For some, like soldiers in active battles, the likelihood of imminent death is greater. For others, like leaders of nations, the likelihood is far less but not zero. Risk of death is written into their positions.

But for one man named Jesus Christ, there was no quote, unquote risk of death. Death was a guarantee because of his assignment. And it wasn’t just any kind of death. It was the death of an innocent man who voluntarily accepted the guilt of everyone else. He didn’t do it for a paycheck or recognition. He didn’t do it so one nation could say they were superior to another. He did it for murderers, liars, thieves, and worse. He did it for the people who rejected, ignored, hated, and disobeyed him. He even did it for those who considered themselves his enemies. He did it so everyone could be saved. He sacrificed his life with no guarantee anyone would accept the salvation it offers, yet he did it anyway. That’s love.

Christ’s sacrifice was the greatest gift we’ve ever received. It’s worthy of recognition and honor. To honor it, we must follow his example and Matthew 10:38 tells us how. We must pick up our cross and follow him. That means voluntarily giving up our comfort and sharing our resources for the good of everyone – whether or not they deserve it. That’s the Christian way.

Prayer

God, thank you for teaching us what it means to love. To voluntarily experience moments of suffering and sacrifice so everyone can be blessed. In those moments we gain far more than we lose. Please help us to recognize and be ready for those moments. Let us live in a way that we can respond to those moments whenever they come without hesitation. In Christ Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Application Question

How can you live more sacrificially for others to honor Christ’s sacrifice for you?