Happy Sabbath, Church Family!
A few days ago, many people celebrated Valentine’s Day. Some gave Valentine cards, chocolates, teddy bears, roses, hugs, kisses, etc. Jesus shared the essence of the Agape love in John 15:13, when He said, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Love is such a precious gift from God. John 3:16 says, ” For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (NKJV) God’s love for us is so limitless that He came to die for us to give us hope and eternal life. Paul tells us that God “chose us in Him before the foundation of the world” (Ephesians 1:4, NKJV). Think about it! God thought of you and me before we were conceived, even before time began. Ellen White said, “The plan for our redemption was not an afterthought, a plan formulated after the fall of Adam. It was a revelation of ‘the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal.’ Rom. 16:25, R.V. It was an unfolding of the principles that from eternal ages have been the foundation of God’s throne.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 22. Praise God!
Yet, it is not enough to receive God’s love. We also need to pass that love on to others. Loving God with all our heart, soul, and strength means that our love for Him should be supreme over our love for everyone and everything else. When we truly love God, we will put everything else in perspective. Today, we can thank God for His loving kindness and His tender mercies for us. The love God bestows on us affirms that we are loved and precious in His eyes. We must live in Christ’s love and reflect its warmth around us. Aren’t you glad you are part of the family of God? Families are a special gift from God. Despite the challenges at every step of the journey, there is nothing like a family to create a sense of belonging—a place where one is cherished despite one’s share of imperfections. May God help us to love our families, neighbors, and all His people. Enjoy the Sabbath with your family and friends. Dear God, shine through us and help us lighten another’s darkness by showing the same love you have extended to us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Evadne Henry