Awesome Love, Radical Response

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”  Romans 12:10–11 

God’s love is not tame. It is not safe, predictable, or mild. The Bible calls it “awesome”—a fierce, holy love that moves mountains, splits seas, and raises the dead. “For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome…” (Deuteronomy 10:17). This love should never be met with half-hearted devotion.

David said, “Zeal for your house consumes me” (Psalm 69:9), expressing a love for God that left no room for indifference. This zeal was so strong in Jesus that it drove Him to cleanse the temple (John 2:17). Paul exhorts the church in Rome to “never be lacking in zeal” (Romans 12:11) but to let love lead to action—serving, uniting, honoring.

Jesus modeled this radical love. He stooped to wash feet (John 13:14), forgave from the cross (Luke 23:34), and reconciled enemies to God (Ephesians 2:14–16). His awesome love cost Him everything—and calls us to the same: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Luke 9:23).

So what is our response?

Let it be zealous—full of joy and fire in worship.

Let it be costly—sacrificing pride, time, and comfort.

Let it be active—pursuing peace, building unity, feeding His sheep.

Prayer:

Lord, your love for me is awesome and overwhelming. May my life reflect the depth of your love. Give me zeal for your church, courage to follow Jesus wherever He leads, and a heart that seeks peace and unity with others. Amen.