We read in 1 John chapter 4: 10-12 "Love consists in this: not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, If God loved us in this way we must love one another (12) No one has seen God. If we love one another, God remains in us and his love is made complete in us."
Christmastime is a time for love. To show love to family, friends and neighbors. With all the hustle and bustle around the season, this should be easy for us right? But for some of us; it may be. But for others, this holiday is less of an easy demonstration of love and more of a test of it. Perhaps you know you'll spend the day with that family member that really drives you crazy, Maybe you'll spend the holidays alone despite wanting to show love to others (or wanting to receive love from others). Or Maybe this is the first Christmas without someone you love dearly.
Whether you are excited about the coming celebration of Jesus' birth or dreading the feelings it may stir inside of you, there is a shared need among us all. No matter where you find yourselves on the spectrum, the call to love at Christmastime (and all the time) highlights our dependence on God. In the verses listed at the top of the page, John says "Dear friends, If God loved us in this way we must love one another."v11.
God's love for us moved beyond feelings and into a decisive action. He loved us so much that He sent Jesus to be born, to live and to die for our sins. In response we ought to offer a similar response to those around us. No sacrifice of our time or energy could ever compare to the sacrifice of Christ, but this season we have a unique opportunity to imitate Him. You see love is not simply how we feel . Love for others, like the love of Jesus is made complete in our actions.
So, no matter how you may "feel" whether you find yourself in the holiday spirit or like each day is just another hurdle for you to clear. Advent ought to be a welcome reminder of your complete dependence on God and to demonstrate His love. Every day of this season provides a reminder that apart from God, we cannot truly know love, and without Him we cannot rightly give it.
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