No Greater Love
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:13 KJV
Doctor Jim Clark was fighting for his patient’s life. Little Liz had a rare disease and urgently needed a blood transfusion in order to survive.
The only hope for the five-year-old was to receive a blood donation from her twin brother – not only because the siblings had the same blood type, but also because he himself had survived the condition that she suffered from. His blood, therefore, contained an antibody that could save Liz’s life.
When Dr. Jim asked the boy if he would agree to give blood for his sister, the youngster was initially hesitant. But when the physician explained to him that it was the only way to save his sister’s life, he agreed.
The boy’s parents took him to the hospital where he was put on a gurney beside his twin. Both of them were hooked up to IV’s. The transfusion proceeded as the boy’s blood left his body and entered his sister’s.
As the two siblings lay next to each other during the treatment, the doctor was relieved as he saw color return to Liz’s face. But when the procedure was finished, the plucky young boy suddenly became very serious and asked the doctor, “How soon until I start to die?”
The little boy had thought that with his blood donation, he would be literally giving his life to save his sister’s. While the doctor reassured him immediately that he wasn’t going to die, those in the room were stunned at the immensity of the boy’s willingness. He was ready to give his life for another.
Oh, the Blood of Jesus
As striking as that story is, another is even more riveting. That of one who gave his life not for one who was grateful, but for ones who weren’t.
The Apostle Paul captured this in his letter to the Romans:
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 5:8
Moreover, it wasn’t simply to provide physical life for us, but eternal life. As Peter put it…
For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
I Peter 1:18-19
A life freely given. Blood graciously offered. And redemption gloriously gained. Indeed, greater love hath no man than this.
A life freely given. Blood graciously offered. And redemption gloriously gained. Indeed, greater love hath no man than this.
“O the blood of Jesus…O the blood of Jesus…O the blood of Jesus. It washes white as snow”.
PRAYER
Lord, while I marvel at the story of a little boy offering his blood and yet not having to die, I kneel in awe at the truth of One who offered His blood and did have to die. As a recipient of Your gift of life, may I generously pour out mine that others may come to share what I have gained.
Devotionals for Every Day Disciples is brought to you by our partners.
To support Dave DeSelm Ministries by becoming a partner, CLICK HERE.