This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
Perhaps you have heard the story of the little boy who was terrified of thunderstorms. One stormy night as he cowered under his covers, his mother said, “Dear, God is with you, and if you pray to Him you will not be so afraid.” From under the blankets the boy replied tearfully, “I know that, Mommy, but sometimes I need someone with skin on!”
Love came down at Christmas,
Christina Rosetti
Our Lord was sent from God, lived as God-made-flesh, atoned for our sins, was raised from the dead and then left the earth to return to his heavenly home, sending the Holy Spirit to us. Wonderful as that is, it seems that sometimes, once again, we need a representation of God that is touchable. No one can see God, but if we love others, we can show God to our world. “His love is made complete in us.”
Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending love in the form of Jesus. I am so forgetful, God of Love and so prone to act in ways that are not loving. Help me to remember that people, including me, make your love “complete.” Help me see with your eyes and love with your heart today.
Challenge: Think of a specific person in your life. Now think of a specific way you can show love to that person. Make a plan, and do it.
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