For God so loved the world that he gave his only son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world but in order that the world might be saved through him.–John 3:16-17
In wisdom and out of the abundance of His great love, God, who is love, expressed his love for us by sending his one and only son to a world who would not recognize him. Fearing what they did not know, they killed him. But earthly power and judgment could not conquer heavenly power and resurrection love.
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.–1 John 4:7-9
Christ was born for us among the animals without the honor due his name. Love was made manifest among us. He lived for us, teaching us his higher ways and modeling humility, wisdom, and gentleness. While we were yet in our most despicable state, he suffered and died for us (Romans 5:6-8); the sacrificial Lamb of God, without blemish or stain, was slain for our sin. In ultimate power and might, he rose in victory from the grave. Our kinsman-redeemer, delivered us from the power of sin and death. The greatest gift came from the greatest love.
As recipients of God’s love, let us, with grateful and humble hearts, bear with one another in love. As those who have been forgiven much, let us, without hesitation, forgive others and let the love of Christ dwell in us richly.
Walk the Upward Path 