Jan. 19: The Greatest Empire

The 19th century French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte spent the final six years of his life in exile on the island of Saint Helena.  He had much time for thought during these days, and some of his reflections proved highly interesting.

For instance, Napoleon wrote, “Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne, and I founded great empires.  But upon what did the creation of our genius depend?  Upon force.  Jesus alone founded His empire upon love, and to this very day millions would die for Him.”

Forcing no one, Christ taught in a new way, the only one throughout history whose whole school and whole plan was founded on love.  The world had never before heard of this love.  And even now, 20 centuries later, the legacy of that love continues.  It may be threatened in many places, but the light of faith still burns in people’s hearts.

Often, Jesus seems to lose.  In reality, He always wins—and always by love.

A new commandment I give unto you: that you love one another as I have loved you.  (John 13:34)

Help me to love as You love, Jesus.