The Cost of Love
OPENING PRAYER:
Father, as we dive deeper into Your Word today, help us to understand the depth of Your love and the cost of following You. Open our hearts to be willing to pay the price of loving others as You have loved us. Amen.
"But the people were displeased. 'He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,' they grumbled."
Luke 19:7 (NLT)
REFLECT:
Jesus' decision to stay with Zacchaeus was met with criticism from the crowd. His willingness to associate with Zaccheaus came at a cost. The crowd's muttering and criticism reveal the societal pressure to conform and exclude those deemed unworthy. This highlights the cost of extending grace and love to those who are marginalized or despised by society. This challenges us to consider the cost of following Jesus and extending His love to others.
Christian reminded us in his message that we also may face social or personal costs when we choose to love those who are marginalized. But just as Jesus prioritized Zacchaeus' need for love and acceptance, we are called to do the same. His message reminds us that true discipleship involves a willingness to bear this cost. Jesus' example teaches us that love is not always easy or popular, but it is always worth it.
The cost of love also involves a willingness to be vulnerable and to enter into the messy realities of others' lives. Jesus did not shy away from Zacchaeus' sin or reputation; instead, He entered into his world and brought transformation. This challenges us to move beyond superficial judgments and to engage deeply with those around us.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will share a meal with someone that needs to see God's love. By extending this same love and acceptance to someone may help them feel seen or worthy.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your example of sacrificial love. Help us to be willing to bear the cost of loving others as You have loved us. Give us the courage to extend grace and acceptance, even when it is difficult or unpopular. Amen.