We love because He first loved us. – 1 John 4:19
Amy Carmichael served as a missionary in India for more than 50 years. Working largely with orphans who had escaped lives of forced prostitution, she came to be known by many as “Amma,” which means mother.
Her selfless commitment is something every Christian should aspire to emulate. And yet, one of her most well-known works is a self-reflecting poem titled If, about how easily we fail to love others as Christ has loved us.
In it she writes…
“If I belittle those whom I am called to serve, talk of their weak points in contrast perhaps with what I think of as my strong points; if I adopt a superior attitude, forgetting ‘Who made thee to differ? and what has thou that has not received?’ then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I take offense easily, if I am content to continue in a cool unfriendliness, though friendship be possible, then I know nothing of Calvary love.
If I feel bitterly towards those who condemn me, as it seems to me, unjustly, forgetting that if they knew me as I know myself they would condemn me much more, then I know nothing of Calvary love.”
Do you know Calvary love today? Does it show in your life?
The love that Jesus poured out for you on the cross is the same love He’s empowered you to pour into the lives of those around you.
And as you choose to love just as Christ has loved you, you’ll discover the great truth of Calvary love – the more you give, the more fully God’s love will fill your heart and transform your life!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to open the eyes of your heart to the depths of His love. And pray for the grace to show that same love to others.
Questions for Thought
Who are some people in your life whom you could show Calvary love this week?
What are some ways you could love them like Christ?