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Lent is a season of reflection, repentance and renewal. As we journey toward the cross, we are reminded of the depth of God’s love. His love is not dependent on our worthiness, efforts or righteousness. It is a love that moves first, seeks us out, and sacrifices for us.
In Romans 5:8, we see the heart of the Gospel. God loved us even when we were undeserving. The cross is the ultimate demonstration of this love. Jesus endured suffering, rejection and death so that we could be reconciled to God. His love is steadfast, unwavering, and freely given.
If we look deeper into the scriptures, we can discover at least five types and more, of this love that demonstrates the depth of the Love of God. They are
1) Love that Seeks Us: the parable of the Lost Sheep, found in Luke 15:4-7, God’s love is a pursuing love. He seeks out the lost and rejoices when we return to Him.
2) Love that Sacrifices: Romans 5:8 and Isaiah 53:5 speaks of Christ’s sacrificial love, bearing our sin so we might have eternal life. What sacrifices is God calling you to make out of love for Him and others?
3) Love that Restores: God’s love forgives and restores, even when we fail him and others. He is willing and waiting to restore us to himself if we would only come. In John 21:15-17 he restored Peter; he’ll do the same for you.
4) Love that Abides: God’s love is not temporary; it remains with us always. John 15:9-10 speaks of abiding in Christ’s love. We can walk in confidence knowing that God’s love covers everything because it is unfailing love.
5) Love that Overcomes: Who can forget what is stated in Romans 8:37-39? Absolutely NOTHING can ever separate us from God’s love. In him we have victory over sin, death, and fear.
John 3:16, 1 John 4:9-10 and Isaiah 53:5 all give us a deep reflection on just how much God loves us. They tell us how we should receive, experience and be inspired by that great love for us.
During this Lenten Season let us take time to reflect on the love of God expressed through Christ’s sacrifice. Let us surrender all that holds us back from drawing nearer to God. This will allow us to show the love of Christ to others through acts of love and gratitude.
Let us pray: LORD GOD, WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR IMMEASURABLE LOVE. THANK YOU FOR SENDING JESUS TO BEAR OUR SINS AND GIVE US NEW LIFE. TRANSFORM OUR HEARTS AS WE DRAW CLOSER TO YOU THIS LENTEN SEASON. IN JESUS’ NAME, AMEN!
Pastor Andrea (Rev.Andie)
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