June 22

A Far Better Thing

 

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.  ––John 15:13

One of my favorite stories—whether in book or movie form—is Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities. It’s a powerful story of redemption and sacrifice set during the perilous days of the French Revolution. (Spoiler alert…)

Toward the end of the story lead character Sydney Carton quietly switches places with a condemned man, sacrificing his life for his friend’s. His closing line is one of literature’s finest: “It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done; it is a far, far better rest I go to than I have ever known.” I’m sure Dickens was inspired by today’s verse. But what does Jesus mean by laying down one’s life for his friends? Should we literally be willing to die for our brothers?

We’ve all heard of war heroes who died so that their comrades in combat could live. Falling on a grenade; stepping in front of a bullet. What could be more noble—it is indeed making the ultimate sacrifice. Most of us will never be in that position, but Jesus’ words are no less relevant for us. And context is critical. Jesus says these words at the Last Supper, and the disciples have no idea that this will be the last time they will all be together as one. Jesus is saying: “Do as I am going to do for you; I am going to die for you all and I want you to follow My lead.” And the disciples all died for Him as martyrs—except for John, who died of old age. But again, Jesus typically doesn’t call us to die for friends and loved ones, but He does call us to die to our own desires and distractions for those we love. 

Sacrifice comes in many forms. It might mean giving up your Wednesday nights to mentor younger guys. Or it could be volunteering as a Big Brother. It may mean doing the “honey do” list before your wife even has a chance to write it out. (Imagine that!)

What is a far better thing you can do today for someone you love, or for someone God puts in your path? There is always opportunity—we just need to have open eyes and a willing heart. 

Father, help me do at least one thing today for someone in need.