The way of Jesus is never self-contained. He doesn’t retreat into comfort or limit His love to a select few. Instead, His life is a continual movement outward—for the hurting, the hungry, the lost. This week’s theme, “For the Life of the World,” invites us to reflect on how God’s love is always on mission, and how our lives are meant to echo that same direction.

In John 6, Jesus says, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” This is more than theological language—it’s the heart of the gospel. Jesus gives Himself not just for our personal salvation, but so that the whole world might experience the love of God. His love is not static. It moves. It gives. It feeds.

We see this in Exodus 16, where God provides manna—daily bread in the wilderness. He feeds His people, not only to sustain them, but so they might become His witnesses in the world. This daily provision is echoed in Psalm 146, which celebrates the God who upholds the oppressed, feeds the hungry, and sets prisoners free. God’s love always moves toward the need.

That outward movement continues in Jeremiah 31, where God promises restoration for a scattered and broken people. In Mark 1, Jesus leaves a quiet place of prayer not to retreat but to step back into the lives of the crowds—teaching, healing, and proclaiming the kingdom. Even the law given in Deuteronomy 5 is aimed at shaping a people who will live differently, reflecting the justice and compassion of their God.

Finally, 1 John 4 brings it all home: “This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world…” and, “Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” The flow of love is outward—from God to us, and from us to the world.

This week, consider where that movement might be lacking in your life. Where have you held back? Where might God be inviting you to step out—for the life of your neighbor, your city, or even your enemy? Christ gave Himself for the life of the world. What might it look like to give yourself in love this week?

Readings
Sun: Psalm 146
Mon: Exodus 16:1-15
Tues: Deuteronomy 5:1-22
Wed: Jeremiah 31:1-13
Thurs: Mark 1:35-39
Fri: John 6:48-51
Sat: 1 John 4:9-12