The Daily Devotional
Friday, March 22, 2024
Love in Action
Friday, March 22, 2024
Love in Action
Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.
1 John 3:18
1 John 3:18
Introduction
In the heart of 1 John 3:18, we find a powerful call to action: "Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action." This verse challenges us to move beyond mere expressions of love and into tangible, impactful deeds. The story of Adolfo, a restaurant owner in Wisconsin, vividly illustrates this biblical principle.
Reflection
Adolfo's response to the Covid pandemic serves as a powerful embodiment of 1 John 3:18's call to demonstrate love through action. Confronted with the same trials as his colleagues in the restaurant industry, he had the choice to prioritize his own business's survival. However, Adolfo chose a path of selfless love, inspired by the generosity of another local business. Rather than focus inward, he looked outward, seeing a chance to support his peers by investing his own resources. His decision to purchase and give away gift cards for use at other local eateries was a practical yet profound act of kindness. This mirrored the message in 1 John 3:16-18, where John encourages believers to follow Jesus' example of sacrificial love, emphasizing that genuine love is not just spoken, but actively demonstrated through compassionate and practical deeds. Adolfo's actions during a challenging time vividly illustrate this principle, showing that true love is about putting others' needs above our own, in tangible and meaningful ways.
Application
Adolfo's story prompts us to reflect on how we can put our love into action in our own communities. It doesn't always have to be a grand gesture or a financial investment. Sometimes, the most meaningful acts of love are those that address the immediate needs of those around us. This could be as simple as offering a helping hand, sharing resources, or speaking words of encouragement. What matters is that our actions stem from a genuine place of love and concern for others.
Conclusion
Adolfo's compassionate actions during a time of crisis embody the essence of love that is genuine and action-oriented. His example teaches us that love extends far beyond verbal expressions, calling us to demonstrate it through meaningful deeds, particularly in challenging times. Such acts of kindness not only provide tangible help to others but also mirror the profound love that God has extended to us. While acting on love may often demand personal sacrifice and prioritizing the needs of others over our own, we are encouraged and strengthened by the Holy Spirit. This divine inspiration, rooted in God's immense love, empowers us to rise to a higher expression of love, one that truly transforms words into impactful actions.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love and for the inspiring example of Your servants like Adolfo. Help us to not only speak of love but to actively demonstrate it in our daily lives. Give us the courage to make sacrifices for others and the wisdom to see where our actions can make the most impact. May our lives be a living testament to Your love, expressed in truth and action. Amen.
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Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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