“13 No one has greater love than this—that one lays down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you.” John 15:13,14 NET
“ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
God of love,
No-one has greater love than this. What a headline! Many of us have known love, and know it cannot be perfect. It is about compromise and compassion and sometimes time deepens it. No-one has greater love than this – an outrageous statement? But God so loved . . . We find only perfect love in Your Son, Your visible representation (Colossians 1:15-17). Love sent Jesus, even before we loved You (Romans 5:8). We saw and experienced Your complete all encompassing love through Jesus. When we did not deserve anything but judgement ourselves, You loved..
We have a longing to be loved, Father. And we are. Adopted, chosen, wanted children of God because Jesus sealed the deal, paid the price. Your love, Lord God, is unconditional. You created us and know what is best for us. Even when we make mistakes, let You down or get in a mess – if we humble ourselves and seek Your face (2Chronicles 7:14), You love us, forgive us, and wipe the slate clean.
As we curl up with You and know the security of being loved, teach us not to be self sufficient, We thank You that we are loved with an everlasting love ( Jeremiah 31:3). It is not dependant on how we feel and it is not measured out, allotted, and we do not have to earn it. God so loved you, me . . .
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God of love,
For all our family, friends and neighbours. To have family love, the love of friends, and God’s love.
For our church fellowships, ministers, officials, congregations. Love and fellowship.
For King Charles, the Queen and the royal family.
For our government and their families. Lead and speak clearly to them. Raise up the right people to stand in the elections, grant us a good Government.
For Ukraine and Russian. A miracle, many miracles . . . Peace an end to war.
For wherever there is unrest, war, military oppression: Myanmar, Gaza, Sudan, Afghanistan, North Korea, Nigeria, China . . . change people, situations, hearts, politics.
For the Red Sea and growing International disruption. Overcome and deliver the world from evil.
For those who foster and adopt and give love and care when it is needed.
For those who reconcile and help people to find peace and forgiveness.
For all leaders, managers, movers and shakers to put others first and encourage good.
For the gift of friendship. Protection from scammers, liars and those who would take advantage or the vulnerable.
For ourselves, to be reminded how much You love us just as we are.
In Jesus name we ask, Amen.
Worship Tuesday 23rd January 2024
A gentle song – words of intimate worship.
I sing this praise for you alone
And once again I worship
At your throne
I lift you up you cover me
Safe and strong
Sheltered by your wings
I gaze upon Your glory now
Redeeming love satisfies my soul
You summon angels all around
This joy of salvation I have found
I adore you I will come
With shouts of joy into your presence
Faithful God my heart is overwhelmed by you
In Spirit and in truth I stand
To worship You with all I am
I’m yours, Lord
I am yours, my Lord
Jesus, my heart is overwhelmed