Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5, Exodus 37-38

Ephesians 5:1-2 – Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice.

Lord God, dear Father in heaven, you have loved me dearly and desperately. You have loved me selflessly and sacrificially. I mean, what did you get out of this deal in loving the whole human race? You have gotten nothing but sin and selfishness from me and everyone else. But you have loved me anyway. Dear Jesus, and you? You gave up your own life as a sacrifice that would please God since you knew that we never could or ever would. Oh, God – Father, Son, and Spirit – your love for me blows me away. The beauty of being your child, O Father and the beauty of being your bride, O Christ, astounds me. Help me to live and love as you have lived and loved me. Teach me what it means to love people selflessly and selfishly. Instruct my mind and heart so that I know how to love in every situation and to every soul. Help me to then not just learn about your love, but then to imitate your love. I know, dear Father, that I am not chasing your approval. I already have it; I am your beloved child. Help me now live and love as you have lived and loved for me. Amen.