SCRIPTURE

This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. - 1 John 4:10-12 NIV

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PRAYER

Dear Jesus,

You are the perfect representation of God’s complete love for us. You laid down your life for us, not because we loved God, but because he loved us; not because we deserved it, but because he wanted us with him. In these uncertain times, I cling to the hope this love brings me personally, but Lord, give me opportunities to love others in tangible ways. Let acts of mercy, grace, generosity, and service represent your love for them. Show me those I can love—not because they loved first, not because they deserve it—simply because you love them and want them reconciled to you. May they see you in selfless love. Make your love be complete in me.

In your name I pray.

Amen.

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JOURNAL REFLECTION

What does it mean to you that as a response to what God did for you he wants you to love others? The way Jesus loved us is very tangible; what are tangible ways you can love others, especially during this challenging time? Think of one person who could use the hope of Jesus in his/her life. How can you be a good friend to this person?

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CALL TO ACTION

Today’s journal reflection poses an important question: what are tangible ways you can love others? Those ways may have shifted since we have been spending our time in our homes, but there are always opportunities for us to demonstrate God’s love and hope to others. Today, pray about ways you can show God’s love to those around you and live out your faith in new ways during these difficult days.