Bible Verse for Bonus Day: God did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all (Romans 8:32).

When I decided to propose to Ruthie, I first searched my heart for a way to show her the depth of my love. I wanted a ring, but not just any ring. It had to be one that meant something.

At that time my prized possession was my Kawasaki motorcycle, a black and silver beauty with a full windjammer and a stereo that piped music into my helmet as I rode. I loved that bike! But Ruthie didn't. She thought motorcycles were dangerous, loud, and uncomfortable, so she never rode with me.

Somehow a near-lunatic thought came to mind. Maybe I should sell my motorcycle and use the money to buy Ruthie a ring. In my personal paradigm as a free-spirited road warrior, following through on such a thought was unthinkable. Yet I couldn't help myself. It was the one sacrificial act I could muster to show her the depth and breadth of my love. I sold my bike and bought Ruthie a ring.

What did the great Romancer do when He wanted to present us with a token of his love and commitment? He made a sacrifice so great, so grand, so unfathomable, so "other than" anything you and I could possibly imagine that it left an indelible mark in eternity. God could make no greater sacrifice for us. And no token other than a Ring of Thorns, carries more value and significance.

—Frank Martin in Furious Pursuit

Thought to Apply: God's gifts put man's best dreams to shame. —Elizabeth Barrett Browning (English poet)

Adapted from Furious Pursuit (WaterBrook, 2006) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, this week enlarge my comprehension of, and appreciation for, Your self-giving love.

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