Contemplative Bible Reading

1 John 3:16 (New Living Translation)

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.

I find the wording of this and other translation lacking. Notice how the words “gave up his life for us” are used to describe what Jesus did and also what we are to do for our brothers and sisters (in the church).

I find this misleading. Jesus sacrificed his life to take away our sins. I can’t do that. I can’t take away the sins of my brothers and sisters by sacrificing my life.

So what does this verse mean? Well, today, here is my take (talk to me tomorrow and I will probably have a different understanding and different answer).

Jesus gave away something He treasured for the good of others. I should give away something I treasure for the good of others. Miss a meal, miss a paycheck, miss a ball game, miss a show on TV, and so on. Those are pretty small misses. A little thought can produce a list of much bigger give aways.