Beyond the Weekend

July 17 | Love

July 17, 2015

Text: 1 John 4.7-21

Love. In its simplicity is its difficulty: “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God” (1 John 4.7). The same person who wrote these words also had a front row seat for Jesus’ restoration of Peter and was so moved he recorded it for all to read. It must have been a powerful experience for John, described as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13.23), to see Jesus welcome back someone who had fallen so far.

With this powerful example in his mind, John tells us what we’re called to do—love one another. He also tells us why: because love comes from God. It’s what he saw demonstrated around the campfire on a Galilean beach. While the embers from that fire quickly faded, the image didn’t. It was so powerful, it prompted him to also write, “For whoever does not love their brother or sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen” (1 John 4.20).

Today, as part of your chair time, write a note or an email to someone who needs to hear of your love for them. If you’re not sure who to select, pick the person who is facing a challenging situation or going through a tough season in their life. Remind them of your love and God’s love.

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