.....least

"We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters." 1 John 3:16

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

Professor Bruce Riggins of McCormick Theological Seminary met a very dedicated Christian woman working with underprivileged people in London. He asked what it was that inspired her faith and action. 

She told him this story: she was a Jew fleeing the Gestapo in France during World War II. 

She knew she was close to being caught and wanted to give up. She was hiding in a home in France and a widow came and said it was time to flee. "It's no use," she said, "They'll find me anyway. They are so close." This Christian widow replied, "Yes, they will find someone here, but it's time for you to leave. Go with these people to safety. I will keep your identification and wait here." 

She then understood the plan; the Gestapo would find the widow and think she was the fleeing Jew. When she asked why, the widow responded, "It's the least I can do, Christ has already done that and more for me." The widow was caught and imprisoned, allowing the Jewish lady to escape. Within six months she died in a concentration camp. The Jewish lady never forgot. She too became a follower of Jesus Christ and lived her life for others. She said she came to Christ through the greatest love a person can give – self-sacrifice.

This is exactly how Jesus purchased salvation for us.  He chose to die in our place so that we could have forgiveness through his blood and a personal relationship with Him. We can never repay what he has done for us, but we can live our lives in a way that honors Him. Jesus selflessly served others in love, so much that he gave his life. Let us, too, serve others faithfully and share the love and mercy we have received. 

Dear Jesus, thank you for your sacrifice and the forgiveness and unconditional love we have received because of it. I pray that I would honor and glorify you through the way I love and serve others. May others come to know you through the example I give. In Your name, Amen. 

- david langerfeld