The Lodestar

Love is defined on the cross, not in words, but by action. Any other definition of love is inadequate. John affirms that we know love because he “laid his life for us.”

Christ’s death on the cross is an example and an obligation. Those who experienced that love “ought to lay down” their “lives for the brothers” (1 John 3:16). The principle is simple: I should return what I received in some form. It is ungrateful not to send gifts to friends on birthdays if they had done so for us.

Significant differences exist between love on the cross and love in our mundane lives. Christ's love compels us to love one another as members of humanity. The extent is equal to what we received: Since Christ loved us to lay down his life, we must be willing to lay down our lives for others if needed. Life for life is the rule of this supreme love.

Setting this extreme limit, John explains its application in daily life. Since we are called to love to the extent of laying down our lives, we must not ignore those in need. Hearts ignited by the supreme love of Christ on the cross should warm up the needy around them by meeting their needs. No Christ-follower can ignore the needy world in which they live.

We may not be able to eradicate poverty alone, but we can contribute to making people live better lives through our giving and care. As Christ defined love by action, we should share love, doing our part in eliminating poverty and hunger.

Do not pass a person in need without doing something for them; find a charity and donate what you can, whether it's money or time.