4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does
not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not
self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love
does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always
protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
How do you love? Who do you love?
That is an easy answer for most of us. We love our parents, husband,
children, friends, and boyfriend. We love those who have been there for us time
after time. The ones who aren't afraid to get in the deep with you and pick
you up again. We show them love with hugs, kisses, trust, putting them
first. The list can literally go on and on.
But, do you love the homeless, the misfits, those who act and look
different, pregnant teens, and anyone who doesn't fit into what you deem is the
"right" lifestyle?
Christ does not call for us to only love those who are easy to love. He
does not command us to pick our "top 5", loved ones. He does not need our help when it comes judgement time of others.
I feel that we are all guilty of this. Unfortunately, today's church is
not immune to this. I am guilty of this. In fact, many times we are at the fore
front of this judgmental mentality.
So, I get it. I get why a great number of young people turn away from the
church. Why so many deny Christ because of the judgment of some Christians. We
are the face of Christ for media, and today's society. What would Jesus say if
He came into one of your church services and gave it a good look over? That it
is why I feel it is of the most importance that we remember this:
Jesus said, the two greatest commands are to "love the Lord your God
with all your heart, soul, and mind" and to "love your neighbor as
yourself".
LOVE.
That is what God has sent us to do.
Love those who are deemed, "unlovable". Love those who have no
one else. Love those who are dirty. Love the sinner. Love the addicts. Love
your family and friends. Love those who make "poor", life choices.
Love when it is hard and uncomfortable.
How different would us as Christians act if we followed His command?
"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one
of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
-Matthew 25:40-
"Jesus is saying that we show tangible love for God in how we care
for the poor and those who are suffering. He expects us to treat the poor and
the desperate as if they were Christ Himself."
- Crazy Love, Francis Chan-
I find this unbelievable convicting.
This week, reach out. Show love to someone who you haven’t. Love the least
of these, as if they were Christ.
No, it won't be easy. Yes, it will bring you out of your comfort zone.
Christ isn't always comfortable. In my opinion, if you are comfortable in your Christianity,
watch out. Christ will use you in ways you could never imagine. I not only
believe this, but have thankfully experienced it...
I will love.
I saw a man today, his whole world across his back
A living monument opposed to my success
I tried to look into his eyes as he shuffled past my car
Sweat beating on his skin, his clothes and hair a mess
As the light turned green and I pulled away, he slowly disappeared
Just a memory of another chance I failed to show your love here
I wanna love because You loved
I wanna give because You gave
I wanna reach my hand out to the lost
because I know Your hand will save
Only You can save
Only You can save
