In what ways can we demonstrate Jesus' love to others today? Rooted in Jesus’ Love “ As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Remain in My love.” – John 15:9 Seeing the Pattern of Love • Father → Son → Us: a perfect, unbroken chain of self-giving love • Remaining (abiding) is not passive; it means daily choosing to stay connected to the Vine (John 15:4-5). Living Out His Love Today 1. Loving Sacrificially • Give time, attention, and resources the way Christ gave Himself (Ephesians 5:2). • Quiet acts of generosity mirror the widow’s offering (Luke 21:1-4). 2. Speaking Life • “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful…” (Ephesians 4:29). • Encourage, bless, and build up rather than criticize or belittle (Proverbs 16:24). 3. Practicing Forgiveness • “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32). • Refuse grudges; choose grace, reflecting Psalm 103:12. 4. Serving Humbly • Jesus washed feet; we wash dishes, change diapers, mow neighbors’ lawns (John 13:14-15). • Greatness in Christ’s kingdom is measured by servanthood (Mark 10:43-45). 5. Bearing Burdens • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2). • Show up in crises; pray, listen, provide meals, babysit, share expenses. 6. Welcoming the Outsider • Feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit the imprisoned (Matthew 25:35-40). • Practice hospitality without grumbling (1 Peter 4:9). 7. Upholding Truth with Grace • “Speaking the truth in love…” (Ephesians 4:15). • Share the gospel clearly, gently, confidently (1 Peter 3:15). Staying Connected to the Vine • Daily Scripture intake keeps love fresh (Psalm 1:2-3). • Ongoing prayer aligns the heart with His (Philippians 4:6-7). • Fellowship with believers sharpens and spurs us on (Hebrews 10:24-25). The Visible Testimony “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35). When we forgive quickly, serve freely, and speak truth graciously, the world sees the living reality of John 15:9—Jesus’ love flowing through ordinary people into an often loveless world. |
    |