1 John 3:18—”My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”
In today’s world, it is sometimes difficult to like some people around us. Maybe we get annoyed with the vegetable vendor who dumps their garbage beside the road? The old man down the street who refuses to pick up after his dog, the boys at the bus stand who tease you as you walk into college, and the neighbour who makes it a point to constantly compare themselves with you, are some others who you cannot seem to like. Mathew Henry says – ‘Surely we should love those whom God has loved, and so loved?’
When Jesus was in this world, do you think He agreed with everyone ? “… Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.” (1 Timothy 1:15-16)
When we practise real love -> we shut down self-criticism -> we obey the commandment (believe in Christ and love one another)-> we receive what we ask from God -> we dwell in God and God in us (evidence is we receive Holy Spirit from God).
How do we know if we have the love of Christ for perishing sinners, or that the love of God has been planted in our hearts by the Holy Spirit? With God’s love, the love of the world will not overpower feelings of compassion for a perishing brother. Also, when our conscience condemns us in known sin, or for neglecting known duty, God does too. So, we can diligently listen to our conscience to be obedient before God. Let’s not just talk about love; let’s practice real love.
Father God, we thank you for Your mercy and Your never-ending love. Please kindle in us Christ’s love for perishable sinners and God’s unconditional love to all. In Jesus’ most holy name…Amen.
