John 13:34-35
states, “A new command I give you: Love one
another. As I have loved you, so you must love one
another. By this
everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
This verse can be a bit challenging. It’s easy
to love those who love us, but what about everybody else? God instructs us to
go far beyond loving friends and family. In fact, He commands us to love those
we don’t even know (Hebrews 13:2.) Furthermore,
the world will know we are His based on the love we show. In other words, how we treat others is
a direct reflection of our relationship with Him. This is so important. Jesus
is teaching us here that in order to reach people, we need to love them first.
I think we have all stepped foot into a
place before where nothing was familiar—whether it be a classroom, a workplace,
a new church, or someplace else. Regardless of the environment, it’s natural
for one to desire to feel a part of the community. Likewise, we all know what
it’s like to feel alone. As Christians, we have the opportunity to show God’s
love to those that are feeling isolated and detached from their environment. Sometimes
this can be easier said than done. However, it’s so important that we choose to
not grow so comfortable with the familiar that we miss these moments. Jesus
created us to connect with others, and love them like we love ourselves. When
it comes down to it, Jesus loves us all equally even though we sometimes like to
think differently. Therefore, it’s time for us to see others with the value
that He sees.
It is part of our church’s vision to
carry out this principle, as it is vital to our growth both personally and
outwardly. I challenge you, this year, to get a little uncomfortable. Go out of
your way to love, care for, and welcome someone you have never met before. Practice hospitality. One of the strongest
human desires is to feel loved, and God demonstrated His love for us greater
than any man ever could have. Therefore, let us follow His example and show the
world how much He loves each and every one of His children.
Written by: Tamara Sturdivant
Edited by: Jenelle Kelly
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