3:16Sample

The Call to Imitate

First, John 3:16 reminds us that Jesus' sacrificial love wasn't just an example to admire but a model to follow. When Jesus laid down His life, He revealed the depth of love we are called to imitate.

Before His crucifixion, He told His disciples, "So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples" (John 13:34-35).

Loving like Jesus requires humility and selflessness. Paul emphasizes this in Philippians 2:3-4 when he writes, "Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too."

Sometimes, imitating Jesus means taking small steps of sacrificial love. It could be as simple as listening to someone who feels unheard, forgiving someone who has wronged you, or sharing your resources with someone in need. Galatians 6:2 encourages us, "Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ."

True love is active. It moves us to serve, give, and reflect Christ's heart in all we do. As we imitate Him, our love becomes a testimony of the God who first loved us.

O Sovereign Lord, You gave everything for me! Help me to follow Your example and love others selflessly. Show me practical ways to reflect Your heart and bear the burdens of those around me. May my life point others to You. Amen.