Our scripture this morning is 1 John 4:9-10 (ESV).
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. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Although the phrasing is slightly different, 1 John 4:9 sounds very much like John 3:16. Both verses speak of God’s love for us being so powerful He is willing to give Himself up for our redemption. The CSB Study Bible: Notes tell us “The standard of love is not what humans feel but what God has revealed in Christ’s life and death on the cross.”
This is a testimony to God’s presence with us, “so that we might live through Him.” When we let Him into our lives, everything changes. Our focus shifts from ourselves to our relationship with God and one another.
God wants us to understand that His love is given freely in the hope we will choose a connection with Him. As the grateful recipients of this gift, we are called to continue what Jesus showed us, sharing His love and making disciples of all people.
Loving Lord, we are amazed at Your love for us, demonstrated by sending us Your Son. Bless us to be bold messengers, carrying the Good News to the world. Amen.
