John 3:16 – For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.
On February 14th, we give cards, candy and other gifts to show our loved ones that they are special to us. What a feeling to know that someone loves you. All obstacles are minimal, when you have the love of someone. When I read John 3:16, I think about how special we are to God and how minimal the obstacles are when he is in our lives. Our lives are better because God loves us, because he gave his only begotten son, that we might have everlasting life. I also see in this scripture that God's love is eternal and unconditional. No matter how many times we fall short, his love is still ongoing. In spite of our faults; he overlooks them and sees our needs. I remember that there were times in my life when I felt unloved, but then I heard the good news: Jesus died for my sins. One of my favourite scriptures is John 3:16. It tells me why God gave his only begotten Son. It was, it is, my second chance. We don't often get second chances in life. Oh, but what a second chance – to gain everlasting life.
The dictionary defines love as an intense feeling. God "so loved" the world – that's an intense statement. God's love is strong and unending; he won't stop loving us. How powerful that is! God doesn't love us on condition. His love extends far beyond that.
Jesus knew the pain he would endure on the cross but still he laid down his life. There is a gospel song entitled "In Harm's Way," which tells how Jesus placed himself in harm's way for us. He bore the many stripes and the humiliation of crucifixion for you and I. Because of God's love, Valentine' s Day has taken on a new meaning for me.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you for your undying love. Help us Father, to remember your love, when life becomes tough. Let us remember your wonderful gift, Jesus, and that we can do all things through Christ which strengthens us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
