This Wednesday is Family Fun Night.  Family Fun Night is a small group from JOY that gathers each month for food, faith talks, and fun.  At January’s Family Fun Night, I asked the group how they would summarize the gospel in one sentence.  We had a lively discussion about what to include and why, and I heard some good ideas.  Pastor Ed said his gospel in a sentence is, “God loves YOU unconditionally and God showed us that love through Jesus Christ.”

Today, know that you are loved.  Jesus showed us his love first by humbling himself to leave God’s side and come down to us in human form to dwell among us.  What magnificent love with far-reaching effects!  Then, Jesus again demonstrated his love for us in taking our sins upon himself.  Because Jesus took our sins, we no longer have them.  Again, he showed his love for us by accepting condemnation for the sins he took and by dying in our place.  Jesus sacrificed his life to save you and me.  As he hung dying on the cross, Jesus demonstrated his love for us in his words, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they’re doing.” (Lk. 23:34a) God raised Jesus from the dead and he appeared to those who had betrayed him, deserted him, and denied him.  Again, he showed his love to them by saying, “Do not be afraid,” (Matt) and “Peace be with you.” (Luke)

Read John 15:9-17, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally!

Annie