Today’s Bible Verse:
1 John 4:9 ESV

In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.

The love of God is not an abstract concept or a fleeting emotion. It is an active, self-giving reality, most tangibly demonstrated in the sending of His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world.

As Lutherans, we affirm that this love is central to our faith. God’s love is not something we earn or achieve; it is freely given. Martin Luther often marveled at God's grace, describing it as a divine exchange: Christ took on our sin and death, and in return, we received His righteousness and life. This love is not just for our comfort but our transformation so that we might "live through Him."

Living through Christ means our lives are anchored in His redeeming work. His love empowers us to love others, not out of obligation but as a response to the overwhelming grace we have received.

When the world feels harsh, uncertain, or unloving, 1 John 4:9 reminds us where to look for reassurance: the cross and the empty tomb. In Jesus, God’s love is fully revealed, unshakable and eternal.

Prayers

A Prayer for Today:

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing Your love by sending Your Son into the world to give Your people life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Luther’s Morning Prayer:

I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.

Apostles’ Creed:

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.

And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer:

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.

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A Song for Today