John 15:9 and 13 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love . . . Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Tradition tells us that during the Roman Empire, there lived a Christian physician who's heart was touched with the needs of his fellow brothers and sisters who were being persecuted. This man, so loved others that he put his own life at risk by providing medical treatment to those whom the emperor chose to punish. As a result, the great doctor himself was chained and thrown in prison. His love continued to flow even there as he shared his faith with those around him. Following his death, Christians began sending messages of love to each other as a continual remembrance of this unselfish man named Valentine.
Valentine truly knew what it meant to be a follower of Christ. This man lived as Christ lived, serving others. He died as Christ died for the sake of others.
Few of us will ever be called on to actually give up our lives for those we love, but how much are you willing to sacrifice? Time? Energy? Words? Your own wants and desires? The example of the Lord Jesus Christ shows us that love indeed is an action-not just a feeling. What are you willing to do for others today?
God of Love, show me how I can demonstrate Your love to those around me. Remove all selfishness from my heart and mind and give me an attitude of grace and compassion. May I love as Jesus loved. -Ann Shorb 2/13/06
Dr. Ann Shorb is the founder of Christian Counseling & Educational Services, an accomplished professional speaker, and the author of A Light for My Path, a weekly email devotional. Visit her website http://www.ccesonline.com for a free subscription to A Light for My Path.
