The love of God calls us to love others. In trusting Jesus, His love flows through us to others. It really is that simple.

“God is love.” “We love because He first loved us. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.” 1 John 4:16, 19

One of my favorite verses is 2 Corinthians 5:14-15, which says,

¹⁴ For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. ¹⁵ And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

Christ’s love is our motivation for living for Him. He died and rose again–is that not proof that He is who He says He is, which is the Son of God, the Messiah, Lord of heaven and earth? Yet, He doesn’t want us to be afraid of Him. He is meek and lowly, “a bruised reed He will not break” (Matthew 12:20). He is humble and gentle at heart, and He offers rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-30).

Jesus loves us and the Father loves us,

²⁶ In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. ²⁷ No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. ²⁸ I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.” John 16:26-28

People who are afraid of Jesus don’t know Jesus. Let’s introduce them to Him, shall we? Let’s begin by treating each other (Christian brothers and sisters) like Jesus told us to,

³⁴ “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. ³⁵ By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

Jesus showed us how, now let’s get busy doing it!

Abba, You told us to love like You. It’s difficult because we are afraid. Help us to remove our fear and to trust You in all things, for all things. Amen.