The original sign man traveled across the country, attending several professional sporting events. After studying the cameras at each event, he put himself in the ideal position to display John 3:16 to viewers. This and other variables has made Jesus’ words in this passage to become one of the most famous verses in the Bible. Yet, there is another John 3:16 which often gets overlooked, possessing another powerful message.
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters, 1 John 3:16.
When it comes to love and sacrifice, I tend to miss the mark. While I do get emotional when I see something heart breaking or touching, my actions lack true compassion. When I served on a board of elders for six years, I witnessed first hand how messy life can get. Love takes energy, patience and time. Unfortunately, I often abandon ship along the way, not completing the act of love God wants me to carry out.
If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? – 1 John 3:17.
The second verse in the passage above provides the frame work for a compassion test. Like taking a spiritual gifts test, here’s a few questions to consider. First, what are you laying your life down for? Second, where is the bulk of your free time spent? Third, is there anyone in your life that currently needs your help? Finally, what will you do to reorganize your priorities to become the hands and feet of Christ on earth. As you ponder the questions above, may the Holy Spirit guide and direct you to become a compassion soul on earth.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 