Beautiful Word Devotional #257

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

John 15:13

Jesus was nearing his appointment with death when he said these words to his disciples, and he made this statement for two reasons.

First, Jesus wanted to prepare these men for the challenge they would soon face: life without him. Jesus’ crucifixion would not make sense because they expected him to defeat Rome and usher in a new but eternal kingdom. Certainly this King of an eternal kingdom would not die!

But this King did die.

Jesus also said these words of John 15:13 to remind his disciples about the why of the cross. Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead, enabling forgiven human beings to be in relationship with holy God. And now God would become friends with mankind.

Jesus started this series of events, and he did so simply because he loved humanity. He laid down his life for us, whom he calls his friends.

Lord, your death on the cross was an amazing demonstration of your great love. I am so blessed to be loved by you, amen.