Monday: God is Love – Read 1John 4:16-19. Of all the characteristics that God displays, love is the cornerstone. It is love that ran the risk of being vulnerable and rejected on the cross so that we might have right relationship with God. It is love that made covenant with Israel throughout the centuries. It is love that allows us to love others. It is the Greatest Commandment. It’s who God is. Pray that you will know this kind of love. 

 

Tuesday: Love for All People – Read Acts 2:38-39; John 3:16; John 7:33; Matthew 28:19. One basic belief of Methodists is that God’s love is for all humanity. Notice the inclusiveness of the scripture. A word  like “All,” “the world,” “whoever” means that everyone has the ability to experience God’s forgiveness and mercy. “Salvation is for you, your children and all who are far off,” said Peter in his Pentecost sermon. Do you understand why we sing that Jesus is the hope of the nations? No one is beyond God’s grace – not you or anyone you know. God’s love isn’t elective or selective; it’s for all.

 

Wednesday: Why Do We Love God – Read Psalm 103. What an account of the character of God! The very nature of God is compassion, forgiveness, justice, righteousness and love. Our response is praise. It isn’t ourselves who deserve praise but God. If there is anything good in our character or behavior, it comes from God. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. When was the last time you gave thanks and praise to God? When was the last time you told another person about how good God is? If you can’t remember, it has been too long. What are you waiting for? 

 

Thursday: Do You Want Proof – Read Romans 5:8-11 & John 15:13. When we worship and take communion, the pardon comes from this Romans verse. If you want to know how much God loves you, look at the cross. Jesus, God incarnate, came to show the redemptive love God has for us. Isn’t this the message of Good Friday? How do you respond to this kind of love? Love God back and love others so that they know. Greater love has no one than this . . .

 

Friday: The Love Chapter – Read 1Corinthians 13. Love isn’t just a simple feeling. It is a matter of will. Agape is the type of love that is without conditions. It is the love that wills itself to love the other no matter what. As we grow in grace with the Holy Spirit living within us, our lives reflect the love of God to others. We begin to live the characteristics listed in 4-9. Now, we may be a poor reflection but God isn’t done with us yet. May God continue to work in you and through you so that you may reflect love in who you are.

Saturday: Love Calls Us Home – Read Luke 15. Jesus tells us three stories of grace in action climaxing with the return home of the lost son. Far too many of God’s own have lost their way. They can’t find their way back without forgiveness and love at work. Notice that each story has something valuable that is lost. When the sheep, coin and son are found, there is great rejoicing. “More rejoicing when one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who don’t need to repent” v. 7. Only love can call them home. Remember God loves you and wants you back. You are valuable to God no matter what you have done or where you have been. Come back to God and experience this love!