by Ann Cetas
Amazing Grace Reflections
Our Daily Bread Devotional
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God” (John 3:16-21, ESV)
“Love locks” is a growing phenomenon. Thousands of people in love have attached these love padlocks to bridges, gates, and fences around the world, including France, China, Austria, Czech Republic, Serbia, Spain, Mexico, and Northern Ireland. Couple engrave their names on a padlock and then attach it in a public place to symbolize their everlasting love.
Authorities of some landmarks frown on them because of the danger they cause if too many are attached. Some think they are acts of vandalism, while others view them as beautiful art and a picture of committed love.
The Lord showed us true “everlasting love” in a very public place. He displayed His love on the cross when He gave His life to provide forgiveness of sin. And He continues to show us His love on a daily basis. Salvation is not only a promise that we’ll have eternity with God, but it is also a daily experience of forgiveness, assurance, and grace in our relationship with Him and others. Jesus’ love for us is the basis of Paul’s challenge to
“live life filled with love”
toward others (Ephesians 5:2).
The love of our Father enables us to be patient and kind with others. In His Son, He has given us the ultimate example and means of loving one another—forever.
I AM LOVED COMPLETELY