Advent Devotional: Day 15

“In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we have loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:9-10 ESV

John understood that God so loved us-not in the way the world loves, but more than that. He loves us in a sacrificial love. The world sets limits or conditions on love, but God knows no limits. He loves us in a way that is beyond our understanding.

This love was manifested in the life of Jesus. We celebrate His arrival with great joy. God gave us the gift of Christ, so at Christmas we exchange gifts with the ones we love. Our Christmas season needs to point to the cross, because it is the cross that shows the ultimate love God has for us.

In the cross we find Hope, Peace, Love and Joy as our separation from God is bridged.  Our separation is seen in our chaotic times: we know it as sin. The fruit of sin brings division, hate, and destruction, but the fruit of the Spirit brings love, mercy and grace, which offers us Hope.

Today as we draw closer to the celebration of our Savior’s birth, reflect on the Love of the Father who sent us Jesus.  Also reflect on the love Christ has for us, in that He gave His life for us so that we would have a place with Him and our Father.

‘Tis the season of love: who can you show God’s love to this week?  Handwritten notes are special for those who do not have family around, maybe gather friends to write some notes for the people in nursing homes.