The greatest love gives itself for others, and Jesus showed it for us.
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”John 15:13 (KJV)
What does “Greater love” mean in John 15:13?
Jesus says there is no love greater than laying down one's life for one's friends. He says it to friends He is about to die for.
Going deeper
Jesus describes the highest kind of love in one sentence: greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Then He does exactly that. This is not an abstract idea. It is the pattern of His own life. He loves not only in words but with everything He has. And He tells His disciples that this is what they, too, are called to live out toward one another.
Most of us will not be asked to die for a friend. But we can lay down parts of our lives: our time, our comfort, our preferences. It may mean visiting someone who is lonely, staying to help when we would rather leave, or giving up a small privilege for the sake of another. Think of one friend or family member today. Ask what laying something down for them could look like this week, and then do it with joy.
Reflect
What could you lay down this week, such as time or comfort, for the sake of a friend?
Pray
Lord Jesus, thank You for laying down Your life for me. Teach me to love others in the same way, in small and large ways. In Jesus' name, amen.
Get the Daily Word by email
One short study, a verse, and a prayer in your inbox each morning. Free, for anyone, anywhere.
By subscribing you agree to receive one email a day from Light of Christ Christian Church. You can unsubscribe at any time with one click.