John 15:13-14

Introduction:

1. The story behind this title is a favorite of mine both in pondering the gift of our loved ones in this life and the gift of Christ.

2. There are many motivating factors in our pursuits, but none is greater than love, and SHMILY is a powerful love story.

Discussion:

I. The Mysterious SHMILY

A. Laura Hammond wrote of a game her grandparents played throughout her childhood and the joy they shared from it.

B. They took turns scribbling this mysterious word all over: in flour on the counter, steam on a mirror, the last square of toilet paper, etc.

C. It was not until her grandfather spoke at her grandmother's funeral that she knew its meaning: See How Much I Love You

D. This little game was a powerful expression of marital love.

II. The Analogy of Marriage in Scripture

A. Scripture frequently describes the L0rd’s relationship to His people as a marriage (Isaiah 54:5; Hosea 2:2-7, 19-20; 2 Corinthians 11:2-3; Ephesians 5:25-32).

B. The description of His love in these passages demonstrates the selflessness of such love as He did it all for His bride’s good.

III. The Ultimate SHMILY

A. In John 15:12, Jesus called on His disciples to love one another as He loved them; in 5:13-14 He foretold the lengths to which He would go.

B. Further highlighting the depths of His love, Paul reminded the Roman Christians that He did this while we were His enemies (Romans 5:6-11).

C. As John said, “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! (1 John 3:1).

Conclusion:

1. As heartwarming as the SHMILY story of Mr. and Mrs. Hammond is, it pales in comparison to the Lord’s SHMILY story.

2. Seeing the depth and purity of Christ’s love for us (Ephesians 5:25-32) is what generates love in our hearts for Him (1 John 4:19).

3. It is this love that drives faithfulness to Him (John 14:15; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15)