As we close our week, we close it with an inspiring story and the words of an inspiring hymn “Jesus Loves Me.” It is said that “Jesus Loves Me” has been translated into more languages than any other hymn in history. It is a precious hymn that we remember from our childhood.
It is a hymn that we are teaching little Nora. I wish you could see her little face as she sings along. It is such a treasure. It is a hymn that has touched so many people worldwide, including one of the most brilliant theological minds of the last century: Karl Barth. Listen, as one person recounts his testimony…
“Karl Barth, the Swiss-German Theologian, delivered one of the closing lectures of his life at the University of Chicago Divinity School. At the end of the lecture, the president of the seminary told the audience that Dr. Barth was not well and was very tired, and though he thought Dr. Barth would like to open for questions, he probably could not handle the strain. Then he said, ‘Therefore, I’ll ask just one question on behalf of all of us.’ He turned to Barth and asked, ‘Of all the theological insights you have ever had, which you consider to be the greatest of them all?’
“This was a remarkable question to ask a man who had written tens of thousands of pages of some of the most sophisticated theology ever put on paper. The students sat with pads and pencils ready. They wanted to jot down the premier insight of the greatest theologian of their time.
“Karl Barth closed his eyes and thought for a while. Then he smiled, opened his eyes, and said to the young seminarians, “The greatest theological insight that I have ever had is this: Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so!”"
These words touch my heart every time I sing or recite them. They simply, and profoundly, remind me of Christ’s great love for me (us!). As we close this week, may we close with the beautiful words of this hymn…
Jesus loves me this I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong;
They are weak but He is strong.
Refrain:
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Jesus loves me! This I know,
as he loved so long ago,
taking children on his knee,
saying, “Let them come to me.”
Jesus loves me still today,
walking with me on my way,
wanting as a friend to give
light and love to all who live
Jesus loves me! He who died Heaven’s gate to open wide; He will wash away my sin, Let His little child come in.
Jesus loves me! He will stay Close beside me all the way; Thou hast bled and died for me, I will henceforth live for Thee.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 NIV)
We simply say “Thank you Jesus” for your “indescribable gift” (2 Corinthians 9:15 NIV).
God bless you & see you Sunday,
Love Pastor Ralph
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