John was confronted by the greatest decision of his life. He had recently changed the focus of his career but, unfortunately, his new business was failing. His income had all but dried up. He was depressed and despaired. John was married with 2 young children and though his wife was doing what she could to keep the family afloat, their finances were thread bear. John and Pam drifted apart and they fought almost every day. John thought that if he could only walk away and start over, he would be happy. He used to love his wife when things were good but now… John faced a choice: to love or leave.
Jesus had just eaten a hearty meal for Passover and taken a walk up the Mount of Olives with his friends to pray. It was late. The eastern horizon was shifting to gentle mauve hew. Jesus knew that in a short while, he would be arrested, convicted and sentenced to death by crucifixion. His friends had fallen asleep against the trees. He loved these guys and Jesus knew that Father loved the whole world. After all, he had said these words in his teaching: “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son,” and this love would be demonstrated by the event which was about to take place. He could have woken his disciples and led them back to town to go to bed. Jesus faced a choice: to love or leave.
John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this than to lay down one’s life for his friends.
Love is a choice. The butterflies and sparkles may have faded. The one you chose to say, “I do,” to, may not boast the same physique they had when you walked down the aisle. He or she may irritate you more than a thorn in the flesh. Your life circumstances may have changed and, as you face difficulties and trials at every turn, you may desire to simply walk away. You face a choice today: to love or leave. Only by the grace of the One who loved you and gave his life for your life can you make that choice. So, above the lure to take the easy way out, I say you today, choose love.
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