Fields United Methodist Church

Day 13.  Take Time to Be Holy

“God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”  John 3:16

Read:  John 3

The week prior to the Easter celebration is the time to consider just how much God loves us and to the extent God will go to show God’s amazing love to all people. Growing up watching football I was always curious what the signs meant in the stands behind the end zone; 3:16… For years, I wondered about that, tried to understand what the numbers could possibly mean until I asked somebody who knew everything; mom.  She said it is a Bible verse in the Gospel of John, 3:16. So like any loving son I did not pick up the Bible for a few weeks but one day after school, when the name-calling was especially bad, I picked up the Bible and read these words, “God so loved the world….” In my mind it was hard to comprehend, but it sure felt good that God loved me, even and especially me. God’s love is like that, even though we might think we do not deserve God’s love, it is given, freely given. The gift of God’s love is truly amazing; imagine suffering so that even those who despise and hate you are offered eternal life. Imagine a love that shatters all norms of behavior and reaches deep into the depths of humanity to redeem even the most sin-sick soul. That is God’s love, made real through Jesus the Christ. So does God love you? The cross answers a resounding yes; God does love you, especially you so much that Jesus suffered for you, died for you, and on that third day conquered the grave for you. “Amazing love, how can it be? That you, my king, would die for me.” (Chris Tomlin) During these pandemic days, if you are feeling alone or isolated, or even desperate please know that God loves you; whoever you are and whatever you may have done or left undone. All that is required is to turn and accept Jesus not only as Lord but as Savior. God’s love never ends. You are blessed because you are loved by the One who so loves you so much “that he gave his only Son…”

How have you felt the presence of God today?

How have you shared God’s love with someone else?

How are you taking time today to be holy?

Loving God, thank you for your amazing love; there are times I feel so alone then I remember your gift of everlasting life in Jesus. Help me to love others just as you continue to love me. Amen