God really loves you 

Billy Holland

Contributing writer

I was driving down the road the other day and noticed a person up ahead holding a sign. The first thing that came to my mind was that someone was being paid to advertise for a Christmas sales event or maybe it was one of those signs where people are needing help. In the area where I live there is a lot of sign-holding and this always captures my curiosity.

As I came closer, I noticed the sign simply read, “Jesus loves you.” I admit, the motivation that would inspire someone to stand on the side of the road on a cold and windy Saturday morning and hold a sign about the love of God is very powerful. This act of evangelism touches the deepest part of my heart which is exactly what this person is praying it will do.

As I drove by I waved and smiled attempting to relay my agreement and hoping this person would be encouraged to know that others share the same conviction. I serve the Lord as I am sure many of you do but I can honestly say I have never done this.

Whether or not I would actually hold a sign on the side of the road is a provoking thought, and I hope this would also stimulate you to ask yourself the same question. The only thing it would cost is our time and maybe some of our pride.

This brings to mind about just how significant this message really is. We presume that everyone already knows who Jesus is, but it never ceases to amaze me how profound it is to hear that Jesus died for us because He loves us.

I realize that people are familiar with the cross and recognize the nativity at Christmas but how often do we stop and think seriously about it? To believe that Jesus was born to die so that He could save us from being eternally lost should inspire a sense of gratitude and appreciation.

It’s difficult to imagine anyone walking away from this priceless gift, but sadly it happens much too often. The Christmas story usually focuses on Jesus as a baby but the incarnation is only the beginning.

The reason why God gave the Bible to mankind is so that we could comprehend the entire gospel which includes His crucifixion, resurrection along with our responsibility. Romans 5:8 says, “God reveals His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This is about as clear as He can say it and all it takes for this life-changing truth to become activated in our life is for us to accept it into our heart by faith.

You see, Jesus did not just send us a hallmark card saying, “Jesus loves you” – He literally proved it and is now waiting for our response. He willingly agreed to die an agonizing death on an old rugged cross so that He could give you His amazing grace.

Dr. Holland lives in Central Kentucky with his wife Cheryl, where he is a Christian author, outreach minister and community chaplain. To learn more visit: billyhollandministries.com