He died that we might live

​5-30-21
Today's devotion is based on Jesus' words to his followers, "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends."
This weekend, we remember all of those in the military that lost their lives defending the lives of others in battle. Those who gave up their lives saving the lives of their fellow soldiers are remembered by those they saved for the rest of their lives. Wouldn't we do the same?
Someone did die to save our lives—someone by the name of Jesus Christ! Each of us, by our nature, was not a friend of Jesus. We were the enemy. What kind of love is it that would have Jesus die for his enemies?
He did not die to lengthen our life here on earth. By his death, Jesus gave us eternal life. He turned us from enemies into friends. Jesus took our sins on himself so that we can spend eternity with Him in heaven. To that end, we look forward. For here and now, we hear his command: Love each other as I have loved you.
Please pray with me the prayer for today: Lord Jesus, help me this day to be willing to selflessly love the people in my life the way you selflessly loved me when you paid for my sins on the cross. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.