|
He Took Our Place
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).
Pedro and Francisco were brothers in Bolivia. Francisco was brought to know the Lord Jesus as his Savior at a missionary school he attended. Pedro and Francisco looked very much alike; but unlike Francisco, Pedro did not know the Lord as Savior. He would not listen to the Gospel. When the Chaco War (1932-1935) between Bolivia and Paraguay broke out, Pedro, who was older than Francisco, was called up for duty. Francisco, knowing his brother was not ready to die, was concerned he might be killed. One day, he dressed in his best Indian clothes and went to visit Pedro in the barracks. Finding him alone, Francisco said, “Pedro, you are going to war. You may be killed and you are not saved; you are not ready to die! Quickly! take off your clothes, change with me, and go out. When the guard asks your name, don’t forget to say ‘Francisco Gira.’” They changed clothes. Pedro thanked him and embraced him.
This story is a faint illustration of the Lord’s love in taking our place and laying down His life for us. “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us” (1 John 3:16). Don’t forget to thank Him today!
|
