Everyone often thinks of how they will be remembered. I am no different. I have spent too much time at funeral homes not to ponder how I will be remembered. I am a closet county music fan. Although I'm not a big fan of new country, I do like some of the music by Eric Church. He has a song titled, "Those I've loved along the way."
I have been thinking about my grandparents who sacrificed so that their children could have the best, friends that have stuck with me through life's trials and my wife and kids who have loved me unconditionally. Also, I have been thinking about my parents who are the most generous and selfless people I know.
The Bible teaches us the true meaning of love. God loved us so much that he gave us his son so that we may have eternal life (John 3:16). God taught us how to love that while we were yet sinners, he died for us (Rom 5:8). Greater love hath no man than this that he lay down his life for his friends (John 5:23).
The biblical definition of love is passion, brotherly love, motherly love, and sacrificial love that expects nothing in return. I am thankful to have been loved and to have loved many along the way. The love of Jesus has saved me, set me free, and sustained me through the chaos of life. I have also felt his love through my family and friends.
I hope people will say of Ronnie Phillips, Jr. that he loved Jesus, his word, the sinner, and sacrificed for his family. I have decided to tweak the closing verse of Eric Church's song;
Now I'm just a country boy with a Bible.
Lookin back down this ole road I've been traveling on.
It was never about trying to be some big star.
To me it's always been about his word.
He is my best friend , he is the life I live, and I hope I've put a smile on the face...of those I've loved along the way.
You see I wouldn't be the man I am today if not for those I've loved along the Way.
“19 We love Him because He first loved us.
20 If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?
21 And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also.”
You are loved today. Walk in his unconditional love.
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