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The Source of Love

"For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). This famous declaration from Jesus comes during a nighttime conversation between Himself and Nicodemus, a Pharisee searching for truth. Nicodemus, like many of the Jewish people, had long awaited the Messiah. The Jewish nation clung to God's promises, hoping for deliverance from oppression and restoration as God's chosen people. They didn't fully understand that the Messiah's mission would go far beyond their expectations.

In John 3:16, Jesus explains to Nicodemus that God's love is not limited to one group of people but encompasses the entire world! Such a notion was revolutionary! While Nicodemus may have hoped for a political savior or a restoration of Israel's earthly kingdom, Jesus offered something more significant—eternal life through faith in Him.

God's love is profoundly personal and active. In Exodus 34:6-7, God describes Himself as" compassionate and merciful, slow to anger, and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. "God's character reaches its pinnacle in Jesus' mission. Paul echoes this in Romans 5:8, where he writes, "But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners."

For believers today, Jesus' declaration in John 3:16 reminds us of the limitless and sacrificial nature of God's love. It is a love that calls us to believe, trust, and rest in the assurance of eternal life. Even in moments of doubt or struggle, we can cling to this unchanging truth: God's love is for each of us, and it is always enough.

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son to demonstrate Your incredible love for the world. Help me to understand the depth of Your love and to trust in Your promises. Let my life reflect the love You have given so freely. Amen.