Love Came Down
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
We often use the word "love" casually, applying it to almost everything we enjoy. We say we love pizza and ice cream, love football, or love a new pair of shoes. In doing so, the word becomes a quick expression of preference or excitement rather than something profound or meaningful. So, what does true love look like?
The greatest and most extraordinary example of love is God’s love for us. Unlike human love, which is often limited or conditional, God’s love is constant and unconditional. It is not earned through works or perfection or obedience, nor withdrawn because of failure. Instead, it is freely given, steady, and unwavering. It extends beyond what we can fully comprehend. Ephesians 3:18 says that you “may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.”
As we prepare for Christmas, we remember that God didn’t just talk about love, He showed it. Love took on flesh. Love entered a broken world as a baby. Jesus came down to earth.
Why did He do this? Because in the beginning, Adam and Eve, whom God had created as the crown of His creation, fell prey to the devil, who distorted the truth, and they disobeyed God. Sin entered the world! Our relationship with God was broken. We needed redemption and rescue. God had a plan all along because He loved us so much. Ephesians 2:4-5 says, “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.”
God’s love is not distant or conditional. It is selfless, steadfast, forgiving, and enduring, full of grace and compassion. He stepped into human weakness, fear, and messiness to be close to us. Because of this love, we can love others. 1 John 4:19 says, “we love because He first loved us.” So, how do we love others?
1 Corinthians 13 gives us a great picture of love. Turn to it in your Bible now and take a few minutes to read it. Here are some of the words used to describe love in this passage: patient, kind, not envious or boastful, not proud or easily angered, does not keep a record of wrong, protects and preserves. Love never fails. How does that make you feel about how you express love to others? What a challenge for us, right? This agape love is not driven by emotion or personal benefit, but by a deliberate choice to care, serve, and sacrifice. Agape love gives freely, even when it is undeserved, and remains constant regardless of circumstances or response.
In these last couple of days leading up to Christmas, may we be reminded of God’s love for us, ponder on it, and live in gratitude. And, may we put others before ourselves and show them the love of God, even if it is challenging and trying.
For a more restful and meaningful holiday, over the next couple of weeks, limit work as best you can, set social boundaries, take a break from technology, prioritize sleep and rest, simplify your holiday schedule, ask for help as needed, and take time for yourself to engage in some things that you really enjoy doing.
Call to Action
This week, show love intentionally—write an encouraging note, help someone without being asked, or choose kindness when it’s inconvenient. Let your actions point to the love that first came to us.
Enjoy time with family and friends, but don’t leave Jesus out of the picture.
Digging Deeper
Read these additional verses on love: John 15:12, Romans 5:8, Romans 12:10, 1 Corinthians 16:14, Ephesians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 3:12, 1 John 4:10-12.
Prayer
God of love, thank You for sending Jesus as the greatest gift of all. Help us to slow down and truly remember why You came. Fill our hearts with Your love, and teach us to share that love with others as we wait for Christmas. Amen.
Merry Christmas!!
Copyright © 2025 Kyle Cravens
