August 5, 2026 – Daily Devotional
“This is my command: Love each other.” – John. 15:17
We all desire to be connected to others. We have been created by the One who is love. We were created to love and be loved. When we feel isolated, our very souls struggle. There are moments in our lives when we feel so distant from others. We can feel like we are alone in the world and the problems we face are insurmountable. The more isolated we become, the bigger our problems seem and the more troubled we become. We were not made to be alone.
Recently, I read a story of a man who was struggling mightily. He decided to walk to the top of the Victory Memorial Bridge in Nashville, Tennessee. He had every intention of jumping. Lt. Mike Hotz of the Nashville police Department responded to the scene and approached the man. Lt. Hotz calmly approached and asked, “Hey man, my name is Mike. Can I just holler at you?” Thankfully, the man was willing to listen.
While at the top of that bridge, the officer offered to listen and talk. Lt. Hotz has seen his share of trials. He is a veteran. He has seen combat. He has also helped other service members who have struggled. The conversation took some time, but soon the distance between the two men began to shrink. Eventually, Lt. Hotz offered his hand. The two shook hands and stepped together for a long hug.
While they were hugging, Mike told the man, “We’re here to love you, bro. We’re here to love you.” Those words broke through in that difficult moment, and the man who started the day isolated and struggling began to trust another for the help he needed. After other officers and counselors responded, Lt. Hotz stepped away for a quiet moment and a prayer. He told the local news, “I thank God for having me in the right place at the right time.”
That day, love was the gift that broke through in that terrible situation. To know you are loved is a gift. There is no greater thing in this world than love. Love allows us to care for others in their darkest moments. Love compels us to think of others beyond ourselves. Love is the spirit of God. It is our motivation. Love is the gift that brings life and light to the world.
If you feel lonely and isolated, remember first that you are not alone. God is with us. (Matthew 1:23) Reach out to your friends, family, and your family of faith if you need connection. We were not created to be alone. If you know of someone who needs connection, reach out today and tell them they are loved. Those beautiful, simple words are how we share the hope of God with the world.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
