Agape

The Greek word that we often use to express God’s love is “agape.” Somewhere I heard about a visitor to a church who kept hearing the word “agape” used but had no idea what it meant. He really didn’t want to show his ignorance by asking, so he found a dictionary and looked it up. The dictionary said it meant “with mouth wide open.”

Obviously, he was looking up the English word agape.

That’s funny! But maybe that is an appropriate definition… If we truly understand the cross and the wonderful love which is expressed there, we will stand there with our “mouth wide open.” It is amazing that in spite of our failures and shortcomings, the God of all creation gave his Son for us.

1John 3:16 tells us: “We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us…”

But then John continues, “… and we, ought to lay down our lives for one another.”

From a biblical perspective, if the saving love God has for us lives within us, then it will surely pour out of us.

Today, I pray that you would stand amazed at the unconditional love God has shown you. And, may you find concrete ways to share that love with others.

Let us pray: Holy God, we give you all thanks and praise. For you so loved the world that you gave your only Son. Help us to find ways each and every day to respond to your love. As we have been forgiven, may we forgive others. As we have been accepted and loved, may we show love and acceptance to others. And, as we have been served, may we find ways to serve – to the glory of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.