“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2
God’s love transcends warm sentiment. God demonstrated and proved His love by sending His Son Jesus Christ to sacrifice His life on our behalf. God’s action reveals, beyond a doubt, that He loves us.
As His beloved, He asks us to be equally devoted to loving others. He asks us to demonstrate our love also by our actions. Jesus told His disciples to go and do likewise, after He washed their feet in an act of humble service. Paul exhorts the Colossians to clothe themselves with compassion and kindness, and among other virtues, to forgive others and to put on love. Paul explained to the Corinthians that it is better to love than to have all the gifts and abilities in the world.
In Matthew 25, Jesus describes His coming glory where all the nations are gathered before Him. The shepherd will separate the sheep from the goats based on the following criteria:
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” (Matthew 25:35-36)
All Jesus’ examples demonstrate love in action. Loving God in action can be a great way to start a spiritual conversation! Try this challenge.
To model love in action takes self-sacrifice and discipline – choosing to serve, visit, feed, and act. Jesus’ final words are poignant. In what ways have you resolved to be more like Jesus this new year?
Thank You Lord for demonstrating Your love for us by sacrificing Your life on our behalf. Thank You that we are the beloved of God, chosen and dearly loved. Help us love others with our actions and choices. Lord, even today, show me how to demonstrate Your love to another – put others in my path that You are wanting me to love.
Take Action
Ponder and meditate on Jesus’ words. Take up a challenge – choose to begin to demonstrate love by your choices and actions rather than waiting for the feelings to come first.
We need suggestions for great places to demonstrate love in action! Post your favorite below!