There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. – John 15:13

I saw on the news how a fire fighter lost his life by taking a bullet while protecting his wife and children from an onslaught of gunshots aimed at Donald Trump a few days ago at a rally. I thought to myself, how great his love must have been, to instinctively offer protection for his loved ones at the cost of his own life. Sad, yet beautiful. I am sure no amount of words can console the widow and her children, but they can all find solace in the fact that he went out a hero.

This incident gives more context and meaning to Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross over two thousand years ago. In His very own words, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” For family or a good person, we may not think twice if we have to put ourselves in harms way. However, it is difficult to consider people who are in open rebellion against you as friends, it is more monumental to die for them. This is the greatest love of all. This is what Christ did!

As we ponder on the magnitude of Jesus’s sacrifice, let us also understand that He is calling us to emulate His example, just as the fire fighter did. He is calling us to love by prioritizing the safety and well-being of others. In a world that promotes self love above all, He is calling us to shine the light on selflessness and sacrifice, He is calling us to be a beacon of light and an example to all, just as He is.

“In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ.”

So help us God!