What Great Love
“Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist.” ~ John 13:1-4 (ESV – emphasis mine)
Is it just me or does this happen to you too? I mean we have read or heard certain Bible passages so often, and one day you go “wow, that is so amazing”…
I am making my way through Kathy Howard’s “A 31 Day Encounter with Jesus” reading plan (you should try it – it is awesome). When I read the above passage the other morning it struck me how much Jesus really loved when He walked this side of heaven; He love them to the end.
Jesus knew what was ahead of Him; grueling hours before the council (Luke 22:66-71), mocking by Roman soldiers (Matthew 27:27-31), stretched out on the cross (John 19:16-27). Knowing that the next days would be very painful, physically and emotionally, Jesus took the time washing His disciples feet. To me, that is so beautiful and humbling at the same time. What great love indeed.
In three weeks my favorite season starts, Lent. During the 46-day journey I like to really dig through the Gospels to learn more about my Lord and Savior. Will you join me this year? Do you have a special devotional that you will be using? Please do share.
“Lord of Heaven and Earth. Every time I read about Your love, I stand in awe. Lord, help me to never forget about Your great love and sacrifice. May I love others as You have loved Your disciples and us. More of You and less of me… In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.”
amen, thank you for this reminder my friend.
I’ve never really looked for a devotional guide to go through the Lent season. This has spurred me on to take a look and see what’s out there.
Thanks, Iris.
Awesome reminder my sweet friend, love you.
Amazing that such an awesome God would have so great a love for us, sinners though we are!
Beautiful Iris! I love that part you bolded that said, “He loved them to the end.”