As time moves on, I am thankful for Jesus and the church. While having an attitude of gratitude, I also have a feeling of concern. I am concerned about the world really not knowing Jesus or having an understanding of the church. I know this is not a new concept, but our concern for others should not be diminished. John 3:15-17 tells us that God sent His Son so we may have eternal life and through Jesus, the world “might” be saved. God loves us and He wants us to demonstrate that love to others, as we are “ambassadors for Christ.”
Imagine if those outside Christ and the church could understand the love God has for us?! In his book entitled, Love More, Sin Less, Aubrey Johnson says, “The call of the gospel is a call to love. We are summoned by God’s love to share in the fellowship of loving spirits in heaven and on earth (Philippians 2:1-2). Making a commitment to the love-based life is the best decision one can ever make.”
As Christians, we live in a world that is known more for “self” instead of “selflessness.” Generally speaking, this worldly attitude on love creates challenges for us. As we seek to put others first, others may not reciprocate this mindset. Therefore, we must be persistent and not be pushed back when loving our fellow man as Scripture directs us. Let us remember:
· We must love one another– John 13:34-35.
· We must serve one another– Galatians 5:13.
· We must abound in love– I Thessalonians. 3:12.
· We must love our enemies– Matthew 5:44.
· We must remember love is patient– I Corinthians 13:4.
As we engage an embattled world, may we equip ourselves with the love of Christ. Colossians 3:14-15 says, “But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”
The world needs love, the world needs teaching, and the world needs Jesus!
