No Greater Love Has No One Than This
My father was a Marine in the Second World War. He was wounded and returned to the States to recover. His company initially consisted of 250 soldiers, and all but eight were killed that day. A bullet had completely penetrated Dad’s ankle. He left his boot on and walked out with the other seven who remained. Dad talked about that day very little, but he and the whole company were willing to give their lives that day so we could live in freedom and not be under Japanese rule.
John 15:13 is often recited when someone dies in defense of their country. The text says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Jesus spoke these words during the Last Supper. Jesus was about to die, and one of his disciples, Judas, had already left to betray Him. Jesus knew this and was still willing to sacrifice His life for His friends and enemies.
John’s gospel focuses on Jesus’ ministry in word and deed to the masses. In the five chapters, known as the “Upper Room discourse,” Jesus addresses His disciples. These chapters comprise about 20% of the book and cover a very small amount of time. Jesus teaches us about servanthood and humility. He, Himself, is the way to the Father, and we are called to love and abide in the Father’s love.
Jesus was willing and ready to die for those who didn’t believe in Him, but He knew that one day they would. Romans 5:10 says He would die for those who were still His enemies. Jesus asks His disciples, then and now, to “love each other” as He has loved them (John 15:12). Jesus’ great love compels us to sacrificially love others – both friend and foe. Jesus gave His life for each of us. We are called to love one another!
Prayer – Thank you, Jesus, for dying for each of us. Thank you for giving Your life so we may have eternal life with You. Amen.
John 15:13 – “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
By the Rev. Tommy Herndon
Images: Ben White, Ryan Hoffman & Wesley Tingey, courtesy of Unsplash
