The Weekly Word - A Devotion for the Week of February 19
Let’s be a guiding light to those around us, walking in love just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us.
The first verse in Ephesians 5 opens with a powerful call to action: “Therefore be imitators of God.” What a profound statement! As believers, we are called to mirror God’s character and emulate His love in our lives. To do this, we must recognize and embrace the reality of being dearly loved children of God. Our identity as God’s children should shape every aspect of our lives.
Paul instructs the people of Ephesus to “walk in love,” which encapsulates the essence of Christian living. Love is not merely an emotion or sentiment; it is a way of life, a deliberate choice. As followers of Christ, we are called to demonstrate love in our actions, words, and attitudes. This love extends beyond our inner circle to include our neighbors, friends, and even those who may oppose us.
These verses also remind us of Jesus’s sacrifice for us, “as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us.” Jesus, the perfect example of love, laid down His life for our redemption. His love is not self-serving or conditional but sacrificial and all-encompassing. These verses can inspire us to live lives of selflessness and generosity.
The imagery of a “fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” suggests that our acts of love are not only pleasing to those around us but also to our Heavenly Father. When we love sacrificially, our lives become an offering that brings joy to God’s heart. Our love is not in vain; it has a divine purpose and significance.
May we, as dearly beloved children, embrace this calling with open hearts, living the sacrificial love that Christ demonstrated for us.