Love to Live & Live to Love

Friday, April 29, 2011

Because He First Loved Us


We had a beautiful Easter, complete with a scavenger hunt, lots of treats and smiles.  The kids were so excited.
A wonderful worship service provided opportunity for me to reflect on the essence of Easter and the unbelievable, sacrificial love of Jesus.  I always do a pretty good job on special days of focusing on putting my faith into action.  Easter was no exception; I spent the day loving those around me just a little bit more.  But even after knowing Jesus for more than thirty years, I benefit from daily reminders of how He desires me to be His hands, feet and heart to this broken world.
This morning I was listening to a beautiful CD by a wonderful Christian artist named Cheri Keaggy.  All the songs are amazing, but it was the title track that really spoke to me. 
Why did Jesus die for me? 
What does his death really mean?
What difference should it make in my life?
The answers I believe can be found in the simple words below.

Because He First Loved Us
We will stop and help when someone's in a bind.  If we see a need, we'll try to make the time.
And while others think of reasons not to love.  We love because He first loved us.
We are quick to say I'm sorry when we're wrong.  And instead of holding grudges we move on.
For we know the Father's grace will be enough. We love because He first loved us.
We don't seek revenge instead we seek peace.  When life strikes a blow, we turn the other cheek.
We will perservere when others would give up.  We love because He first loved us.
Teach us to love when we don't get it right.  So when the world looks at us they will see the light,  Teach us to love and to lay down our lives.  So they'll praise our Father in heaven.