Devotions on F.I.R.E. Year Twoنموونە

You shall love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18 NKJV).

What Old Testament scripture holds the record for the highest number of quotations in the New Testament?

The answer lies in Leviticus 19, a verse that surfaces repeatedly in the New Testament, woven into the teachings of Jesus, and echoed by various apostles. It's a simple yet powerful command: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18 NKJV). This command isn't confined to a specific day, not even on Valentine's Day, but it transcends time and circumstance.

Speaking of love, let's journey to the scene of the cross, where Jesus, the embodiment of love, revealed His heart to the world. As darkness covered the land for three hours, a visual representation of the weight of sin being placed upon the Lamb of God, Jesus cried out, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46 NKJV). In that moment, as the sin of the world was laid upon Him, the Father had to turn away. Yet, in this agonizing sacrifice, Jesus exemplifies His love for both the individual and the entire world.

As followers of Christ, the love we explore goes beyond romantic notions. It's the sacrificial love that Jesus displayed on the cross, a love sufficient for all mankind. So now, ask yourself, how will you show the love of Christ?

Employment Point: Jesus loved His neighbor as Himself, and now we need to do likewise.