Because of Christ: A 5-Day Easter Devotional by the Belonging Co Sýnishorn

No Greater Love

"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." - John 15:12-13

Jesus’ life was a true reflection of the Kingdom of God at hand. He lived a completely sinless life yet died for our sins. In the Gospel of John, Jesus says there’s no greater love than the love that lays down one’s life for one’s friends. The Passion Translation of John 15:12-13 says, “For the greatest love of all is a love that sacrifices all.” Jesus came down as man, took the burden and magnitude of all our sins upon Him at the cross, sacrificing His body as an offering for us, for our freedom. Jesus laid down His life for us, His friends. May we always remember there’s no greater love as we reflect on the One who sacrificed it all for us.

In one of his last teachings, Jesus no longer calls his disciples servants, but instead friends. He says they did not choose Him, but He chose them. Yet, one of His chosen friends betrays Him.

Before his arrest, Judas arranged a signal with the armed crowd. He approached Jesus and kissed Him. In Jewish customs, a kiss represents friendship and loyalty. Yet, Judas used this signal as the final blow of betrayal, leading to the arrest of an innocent man. Jesus was fully God and fully man and felt the weight of being betrayed by one of His closest friends. Even though Jesus knew what would happen, He still chooses to say, “Do what you came for, friend.” (Matthew 26:50) Jesus knew Judas would betray Him but still calls him a friend. If someone betrays us, we often no longer see them as a friend. We may think of them as a foe. We may turn away from this individual, put up walls or even create boundaries. Not Jesus. Jesus’ response toward Judas was intentional. Despite the mistake Judas made, Jesus still chooses to call him His friend. He still chooses a relationship with Judas. His desire for friendship with Judas didn’t end. His love for Judas didn’t waver. Jesus was and is the perfect friend. Despite the mistakes we make, Jesus’ heart towards us is unwavering.

Written by Pastor Alex Seeley