John 3:16 is arguably the most famous Bible verse and is often called the “Gospel in a nutshell.” It is taught in Sunday school classes and many of us had to memorize it at some point during our confirmation days. When the cameras scan the crowds in major sporting events, you can often spot a fan holding up a sign with John 3:16 on it.
Maybe because the verse is so well known and heard so often, we’ve become desensitized to its impact. As the giving campaign moves towards its climax in a few days, it’s good to recenter ourselves in this “Gospel in a nutshell” so we remember to keep the main thing the main thing.
John 3:16 begins with this life-changing statement: because God loved, he gave. Giving is a sign of love, a concrete gesture of the abstract concept of love. Giving is love in action.
My husband does not appreciate dandelions in our lawn, but when I see them, I’m reminded of a wilted dandelion “bouquet” handed to me by our 2-year-old daughter. She loved, so she gave me something she thought would make me smile. Her “bouquet” didn’t just bring a smile to my face, my heart overflowed with love for her!
When we love, the impulse is to give. And there are more impactful gifts than material ones. Think of how timely the gift of good advice can be. Or the thoughtful gift of a loved one’s full attention. Or the precious gift of someone’s time. We know these gifts of love can brighten our day, change our attitude, impact our lives.
So, are we surprised when God himself gives the greatest gift out of his love for us? God gives Jesus so we can be a part of his family; we are called beloved daughters, sons, friends! When we experience the incredible gift of love we’ve been given, our reaction is to want to share that love with others.
Let’s keep the main thing, the main thing – God loved and gave, so we love and give, sharing what we have so others can experience God’s love!
Prayer
Prayer project:
- Think of several gifts you’ve received because someone loves you.
- Think of several gifts you’ve given because you love someone.
- Pray and thank God for the people who love you and the people you love, and ask how you can show your love even to people you don’t know.