John 3:16“For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] [a]only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish but have eternal life.
Love is following Jesus’ example by treating everyone as valuable and worthy of care.
When we think of love, it’s easy to picture warmth, kindness, and special moments. But God’s love is deeper than a feeling we get while sipping hot chocolate. It’s a love that acts, sacrifices, and restores.
The Christmas story is proof of that love. God could have stayed put and told us to figure out our own problems, but instead He entered our humanity through Jesus. As John 3:16 NIV says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
God’s love didn’t announce itself loudly from the sky; it came in the form of a baby, born to Mary and Joseph in the humblest of settings. Mary responded to God’s call with trust, saying yes even when her future was uncertain. Joseph showed his love by standing by Mary’s side despite the extraordinary circumstances of her pregnancy, protecting and caring for her when it would have been easier to walk away. Together, they became living examples of God’s love in action.
Their story reminds us that love is a choice. It’s not always easy or convenient. But real love looks beyond fear, doubt, and even public opinion to see the value in others and to serve them sacrificially.
John 3:16 opens with the astounding fact that God’s initiative toward humanity is motivated by love, not obligation. Romans 5:8 says, “But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
“The world” means every person without distinction. First John 4:10 underscores the same heart: “And this is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” Because this love is undeserved, it assures anyone—whatever the past—that God’s arms are open. Bible Hub
Nobody is disqualified from the love of God, and He’s actively working to reach everyone.
Reflections: God’s Gift for You. Christmas is a celebration of God reaching out to offer forgiveness, hope, and a brand-new way of life. Have you felt hope rise and peace settle in? If you’ve ever wondered if there’s more to life, there is.
God sent Jesus so you could receive complete forgiveness, start fresh, and live with Him at the center of your life. You can accept this gift right now by talking to Him through prayer.
Prayer: Here’s an example prayer you can pray today: Jesus, I believe You’re the Son of God. Thank You for coming to forgive me and give me new life. I choose to follow You today. Please forgive me, change me, and guide me as I take this step with You. Amen.
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