One popular theme of God’s Word is LOVE! Jesus knew how to love! He loved even the most wicked until He took His last breath. He cried out on the cross, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” During His ministry Jesus loved those hated by others. Remember the Samaritan woman, she was rejected and hated bitterly by most first century Jews, but Jesus loved her. His love moved her to conversion! Think with me for just a moment about the Last Supper. John 13 says “Jesus loved His own until the very end.” Amazingly enough, within a few hours they all turned their backs on Him and hide for fear of their lives. Yet, His loved remained steadfast and true. I want to love like Jesus loved. I want to love others just like Jesus loved me. What about you? I realize loving others is tough at times. I also know at times it’s difficult for people to love me. Paul gives us some insight into LOVE from I Corinthians 13. Take some time to read it, and then ask the Lord to enable you to love like He loved. When asked which commandment was the greatest, Jesus said in Matthew 22:37-40 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. This may seem like an impossible task, but it isn’t! Loving Jesus and loving others is a key birthmark of a true believer in Christ! LOVE is a powerful emotion! LOVE is even more powerful when it is lived out as an expression of our relationship with Jesus. In John 13:34-35 Jesus said, A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another. Jesus knew the power of LOVE! Do I, do you? Take a few minutes and let the Lord speak this truth into your heart… HE WILL DO WHAT YOU ASK HIM TO DO!
SUNDAY SERVICES… Have you noticed who is seated around you on Sundays? Every week we are having new folks from our community join us for worship. Be sure to introduce yourself to them and make them feel at home. People are always moving into Greenville, many seek us out online and then they come on Sunday to see what we are all about. This might make you uncomfortable, but put yourself in their position and then treat others accordingly! If you struggle with this, pray and ask the Lord to give you a tender heart of compassion for those He sends your way! When all is said and done, Jesus will be honored and you will make a difference in the life of someone the Lord brought to you. I share this because weekly I am meeting new people, and I know you want to make a difference for Jesus and the Gospel. This is one simple way to do just that!
1 John 4:21 And this commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.
Love by the Book!
Mike and Cheryl <><