Romans 5:1-11 "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with GOD through our LORD JESUS CHRIST: by WHOM also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of GOD is shed abroad in our hearts by the HOLY SPIRIT which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time CHRIST died for the ungodly.
For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us. Much more then, being now justified by HIS blood, we shall be saved from wrath through HIM. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to GOD by the death of HIS SON, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by HIS life. And not only so, but we also joy in GOD through our LORD JESUS CHRIST, by WHOM we have now receive the atonement."
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13 pictured above). On January 13th., 1982, Air Florida Flight 90 plunged into the icy waters of the Potomac River. This incident is remarkable because of the heroics of one man. Arland Williams. Seventy-five souls were on that flight, but only five survived. Treading water, six people fought to survive. They struggled with broken arms and legs, and two had collapsed lungs. A rescue helicopter came about fifteen minutes after the crash. They dropped a lifeline to one man who grabbed it and was carried to safety. The helicopter returned for Williams, but he passed the line to a flight attendant who was saved. Again, they returned, and Williams caught the line but gave it to a severely injured man who was rescued along with two-other women. It was now twenty-nine minutes since the crash had occurred, and Williams's turn came at last. However, he could not be found. He had put everyone else ahead of himself.
In remembering this incident, how our hearts turn to the self-denying, sacrificial love of our SAVIOR: "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us" (vv.7-8 pictured at top of post). Some would dare to lay down their life for friends, but CHRIST gave HIS life willingly for HIS enemies (v.10), for the ungodly (v.6), and for vile sinners (v.8). Hymnwriters have pondered the greatness of this sacrifice: "Amazing love, how can it be, that THOU my GOD shouldst die for me ?" "How can it be ? How can it be ? That GOD should love a soul like me ?" GWZ
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
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