“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

John 15:13 NLT

https://bible.com/bible/116/jhn.15.13.NLT

A time tested favorite game on the front lawn of Cedar Lodge is Ultimate Frisbee. The name speaks for itself. Two teams. Each has a clear goal where points are scored.  Offense and defense are involved. Play with 10 people or 100 people, it doesn’t matter. There is no better form of Frisbee with a group of people.

We all have ideas about the ultimate experience, food or relationships. There is no higher standard.  It is the best. You cannot get any better than ultimate.

Photo by Josh Rocklage on Unsplash

Jesus is talking with the disciples about love and friendship. He says some amazing things:

• “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me.“
• “Remain in my love.”
• “When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.”
• “Love each other as I have loved you.”

Jesus continues: “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Ultimate love.

What follows over the next several days is Jesus doing exactly that. He laid down his life for his friends. He spoke about and lived out ultimate love. There is no standard of love anywhere or anyplace that is higher or stronger.

The apostle Paul writes in Romans 8: “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow – not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.”

Ultimate love is found through Jesus. Once we have experienced His love for us, there is no experience of love that even comes close. His love is so amazing that nothing can separate us ever again from His ultimate love.

Encouragement: Thank God for His amazing love in your life. Be filled with joy for a love that you cannot be separated from. Seek to follow Jesus through obedience to His teachings. Experience His ultimate love in your life today.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for being, and living out, ultimate love in our lives. What a precious gift You have given. Please help us in following Your example of sacrificial love towards others.

In Jesus name, Amen.

-Ed McDowell, Executive Director
Warm Beach Camp and Conference Center