Week 7 - Day 1 - The Power Of The Cross

God’s Unconditional Love

Scripture: John 3:16 (NKJV)

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Devotional:

Australia’s national day to commemorate it’s fallen war dead is called ANZAC Day. Australians have traditionally gathered at dawn on April 25 to remember those who paid the ultimate price that others may live. One hundred thousand Australian men and women lay buried under white crosses on foreign battlefields. We remember them on that day every year, LEST WE FORGET.

In this we can see how the solemnity of the Cross of Christ has been transferred to our fallen who also paid the ultimate price that we me all live free. The cross of Jesus, as a symbol of our faith in Him represents a new found freedom too.

There was a Cross that stood on a hill outside Jerusalem that epitomises in truth the ultimate sacrifice that was made by the Son of God for all mankind. On that hill was crucified a tortured man who died the most unspeakable death so filthy sinners like us could have the ultimate second chance.

When we understand the enormity of that price paid for us all, it would be impossible for all but the hardest hearts not to embrace such a Man.

In the tapestry of Scripture, few verses are as rich and profound as John 3:16. It encapsulates the essence of God’s love and the heart of the Gospel message. Let’s take a good look at this verse and reflect on its significance for our lives.

God’s Love: The verse begins with a simple yet profound declaration: “For God so loved the world.” Pause and meditate on these words. The love of God is not limited by boundaries or conditions. It is expansive, embracing all of humanity regardless of race, nationality, or status. Reflect on moments in your life where you have experienced the unconditional love of God.

The Gift of His Son: The depth of God’s love is revealed in His sacrificial gift – His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. God didn’t hold back the most precious treasure of heaven but freely gave Him for our salvation. Contemplate the magnitude of this gift and the costliness of the sacrifice made on the cross. How does knowing that God gave His Son for you personally impact your understanding of His love?

Eternal Life: The purpose of God’s love and the gift of His Son is clear – “that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Through faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the gift of eternal life, a life that transcends the temporal and extends into eternity with God. Reflect on the assurance of eternal life that comes through faith in Jesus. How does this truth shape your perspective on life’s challenges and uncertainties?

Questions for Reflection:

1. How does understanding the depth of God’s love for the world impact the way you view yourself and others?
2. In what ways can you demonstrate God’s love to those around you, reflecting the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ?
3. How does the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ provide hope and assurance in the midst of life’s trials and uncertainties?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, Papa God, thank You for the indescribable gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to grasp the depth of Your love for me and for the world. May Your love transform my heart and overflow into the lives of those around me. Grant me the assurance of eternal life through faith in Jesus, and strengthen my trust in You amidst life’s challenges. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Graham Hood