And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. 1 John 4:16, NIV
John experienced the love of Jesus firsthand. He knew how it felt to receive unconditional love that was not dependent on his actions or service. He witnessed the death and resurrection of our Savior and watched the agony Jesus went through just so He could save us. John saw Jesus treat sinners, sick, and hurting people with compassion. He witnessed Jesus forgive, heal, and comfort the people He encountered. In 1 John, he describes this “agape” love as the kind of love that does not have boundaries, exceeding our expectations and abilities to understand as humans.
Even though we may never be able to fully comprehend God’s love, we can accept it and embrace it. And over time, as we come to know and rely on the love of God, we can intentionally find ways to share this love with those we encounter. As we teach our students, we can let the love of Jesus shine through us. We can share His agape love with them regardless of their behavior or performance in the classroom.
Dear God, thank you for showering us with Your unconditional love. Thank you for loving us for who we are and wanting to have a relationship with us. Help us to accept this love and to know we are Your beloved children. Give us the ability to show others unconditional love and draw others closer to You. Amen.
Copyright Laurie Dahle.
Laurie is a member and a physical therapist who works in a Missouri public school district. She also writes her own daily devotionals. If you are interested in receiving them, you may contact her at faithexercisediet@gmail.com.
