“The Macedonian believers gave themselves first to the Lord” (2Cor.8:5). “Diotrephes loves to be first… (3Jn.9). “Of first importance—Christ died for our sins, was buried and raised on the third day… according to the Scriptures (1Cor.15:3-4). “We love because Jesus first loved us” (1Jn.4:19).
“You have abandoned your first love” (Rev.2:4). “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and great commandment” (Matt.22:37-38). “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness…” (Matt.6:33).
Lord Jesus, these seven uses of “first” tell quite a story—beginning with a striking contrast between a man named Diotrephes who “loved to be first,” and a group of poor-yet-generous Macedonian believers who first gave themselves to you, and then to the things you care about. Jesus, in what ways and in what relationships do we seek “firstness” above servanthood? And how can we be set free from our “me-first-ness”?
Thankfully, that takes us to the next two “firsts” in our Scripture tapestry on this November Saturday. Hallelujah, the Gospel is of “first importance” because it meets our first and deepest need for salvation and change. We love you Jesus because you first loved us—by your life, death, and resurrection.
There was a time loving you, abiding in your love, and sharing your love meant more to us than anything else in our lives. Restore us to our first love, Jesus, and our first-loving. As we head into both Thanksgiving and Christmas, please re-order our affections and our “firsts.” Free us again for loving you with everything we have and are, Jesus—with all our heart, soul, and mind—with our time, talents, and treasure.
And in all of our “seeking,” Jesus, may we seek your Kingdom first: That is, free us to treasure your will above our dreams and druthers—for ourselves, our kids, or anyone. Free us to live for your glory and honor, above us being adored, vindicated, or even noticed. Grant it Jesus. So Very Amen.