EMBRACING SACRIFICIAL LOVE - Agape Love

"You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him: For if when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”

Romans 5:6-11

My life has been an interesting journey, as a parent and grandparent during which I, without a thought, have sacrificed many of my personal needs for the love and development of my children and now, in the position of caregiver, I graciously sacrifice for the comfort of my mother in her golden years.

I often joyfully place the needs, well-being and happiness of my loved ones above my own selfish desires. This unconditional action-oriented love is often referred to as "agape" love, serving without expecting anything in return.

This unconditional service can sometimes develop weariness BUT GOD sacrificed His ONLY Son which continues to be my strength and motivation. I try to emulate the generous and selfless love God the Father showed me in sending Jesus and will continue to endeavor to express my love for those in my circle as long as I am blessed with breath.

Let us pray:

Hallelujah, thank you God for the demonstration of the ULTIMATE sacrifice. When I have fallen short, You sent Your Son to die for me. THAT’S LOVE! I am grateful for you always course correcting whenever I may get weary. Looking towards the cross constantly reminds of your sacrificial love and gives me an example to follow. Thank you, Lord, Amen

SUBMITTED BY ELDER ANDREA HOUSTON