Moving Forward - 24 February 2025

MONDAY, February 24, Saint Matthias, Apostle

John 15:13-14 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. 

My husband and I are similar in that neither of us desires grand gestures as expressions of love from one another. Our idea of romance involves the little things: I love yous at the door, holding hands, quiet dinners at home. So, I’m not sure why it took me years to hear this verse as a command to dedicate my life to daily obedience rather than being willing to die for any of my friends. It’s death by a thousand cuts, as it were, to my will when it’s opposed to doing love.

Those cuts don’t seem nearly as heroic or romantic as risking myself as if I were a superhero in my favorite movie. Speaking kind words when I’m frustrated with the people I live with doesn’t hold the same kind of excitement. Following my prayers for those in a war zone with a donation to the Episcopal Relief & Development for that region doesn’t seem as dashing. Choosing needed sleep over scrolling on my cell phone is good stewardship of my body and energy but not nearly as amusing as the screen. And yet, Jesus says this is what makes me his friend.

MOVING FORWARD: What small act of love will be your offering to Jesus today?

PRAY for the Diocese of Madras (South India)

Ps 15 | Acts 1:15-26 | Philippians 3:13b-21 | John 15:1,6-16

(Source: Forward Day By Day Movement)