Saturday, May 20, 2017

Saturday Scriptures #17-John 15:13 Laying Down Our Lives for Others

      How Do You Lay Down Your Life?
debbiethisandthat.com
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. 

John 15:13

Sometimes particular scriptures come to mind and I wonder why. Today's scripture is an example of this. I was praying for guidance concerning what to write about for Saturday Scriptures and this scripture almost immediately popped into my head. But then, I wondered why it had popped into my head. What is its meaning for me and for you? It's wonderful when a scripture comes to my mind that applies to a situation that I am going through at the time, but today this didn't seem to be the case. To me, laying down your life has always meant dying. When Jesus spoke this scripture, He was referring to his imminent crucifixion. As I pondered this scripture, however, the thought occurred to me that perhaps there is more than one way to "lay down your life" for another person. Perhaps dying isn't always involved. Mothers lay down their lives for their children when they care for their children's needs over their own. Spouses lay down their lives when they provide care giving for their spouse rather than pursuing another activity. Friends lay down their lives for one another when they take time out of their busy schedules to be with one another. Family members lay down their lives when they give up personal time to interact and care for one another. Volunteers lay down their lives when they choose to do something for someone else that doesn't involve pay or personal gain. The list can go on and on of ways that one can "lay down their life" for others. Although the ultimate laying down of one's life is dying to save others, like Jesus did for us, I believe the Lord is reminding me that there are other ways, as well, to lay down one's life for another. And in whatever way we lay down our lives for others, we are giving of ourselves as an act of friendship and love. 

Blessings,
Debbie

7 comments:

Karen said...

I have always thought of it as dying too, Debbie, and I'd think of all the people I'd willingly give my life for. You make an important point though. There ARE other ways, such as you describe. It's when we put others ahead of ourselves, not grudgingly, but sincerely and out of love. I know Jesus wants us to show this kind of love, this laying aside of self, and this will be something I ponder and put into practice as I go into the new week. Thank you for this important reminder!

Debbie Styles Life said...

This was a new way of thinking about this scripture for me too Karen. I'm taking this thought with me through my week as well.

Sharon said...

I was grateful for your post when I read it this morning. It does seem to apply to a part of my life right now, and your new perspective really helps me think through some upcoming events in a different way. Thank you, Debbie.

Debbie Styles Life said...

I'm glad the post helped you, Sharon.

Carol @Comfort Spring Station said...

I agree that the first thought to my mind is death, but your perceptive words do beautifully illustrate a laying down of another kind. God bless!

Lay said...

Thank you, Debbie. I like the idea of laying down your life for others as putting the needs of others before your own. Your listening to God speak to you as you seek to write your Saturday blog
Is also very inspirational. A reminder to me to listen and be open to God's voice. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.

Debbie Styles Life said...

Thank you, Laura. I am trying to listen more.