TRUE SACRIFICE

TRUE SACRIFICE

READ:

Romans 5:1-11

Greater love has no one than

this, than to lay down one's life

for his friends. -John 15:13

Eric was one of the good guys.  As a police officer, he saw his work as service to his community and was fully committed to serving at all costs.  Evidence of this desire was seen on the door of Eric's locker at the police station, where he posted John 15:13.

In that verse, our Lord said, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends."  Those words, however, were not merely noble ideals.  They expressed Eric's commitment to his duty as a police officer-a commitment that demanded the ultimate price when he was killed in the line of duty.  It was a real-life display of the heart of true sacrifice.

Jesus Christ lived out the powerful words of John 15:13 within hours of stating them.  The upper room event where Jesus spoke of such sacrifice was followed by communion with the Father at Gethsemane, a series of illegal trials, and then crucifixion before a mocking crowd.

As the Son of God, Jesus could have avoided the suffering, torture, and cruelty.  He was utterly without sin and did not deserve to die.  But love, the fuel that drives true sacrifice, drove Him to the cross.  As a result, we can be forgiven if we will accept His sacrifice and resurrection by faith.  Have you trusted the One who laid down His life for you? -Bill Crowder

'Twas not a martyr's death He died,

The Christ of Calvary;

It was a willing sacrifice

He made for you-for me.-Adams

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Only, Jesus, the perfect sacrifice,

can declare guilty people perfect.

INSIGHT

Today's reading is one of the most dramatic and comforting expressions of the impact of Christ's act of redemption.  Since it is rare that someone would die for another, even for a worthy person, the apostle marvels that the Innocent One would die for sinners (vv.6-8), making reconciliation with God possible through His redemptive sacrifice on our behalf (vv.9-11).

Have a blessed day.

God Our Creator's Love Always

Unity & Peace