Matthew 22:34-40 [NIV] | 34 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ i 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
We live in a time when technology allows us to stay connected with one another. God blesses us with tools to build relationships, share hope, and enjoy the fellowship of life with one another. Social media, Facebook, Instagram, and all the other platforms provided a means for people to share life together. It is unfortunate that the sinful state of our world turns blessings into a platform of sin and harm. Instead of being examples of Christ in a dark world, so many believers join in the chaos of sin, or merely walk away and miss the opportunity to be an example of change.
We look at others and judge them by their actions. We weigh our views and responses by the severity of sin. God does not rank the darkness of our sinful lives – sin is sin. Jesus is clear; we are to reflect his love completely towards him and others. Everything we do reveals our love to God, our families, our friends, and those we do not know. Jesus reveals to us that a person’s total being must be involved in loving God and others. Nothing can be held back because God holds nothing back. A person cannot maintain a strong relationship with God (loving God) without also caring for his or her neighbor (love your neighbor).
As Christians, we can choose to hide from the world and attempt to protect ourselves from the turmoil of the surroundings we live in. We have the option to be in the world and be witnesses of what God has accomplished and his desire for how we live our lives. We can block, unfollow, or even unfriend someone, but is that what God desires? The world gives us permission to turn our heads and walk away. It is time people see Christ is us through our actions. Do not miss an opportunity to show love.
Prayer:
Lord, help us live a life that reflects our love to you. Lead us to places where people need to hear of your mercy and grace. When we are tempted to hide, give us strength to be bold. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Action Plan:
Today I will reflect the love I have for God to my neighbors.
Pastor Rod Lindemann
I Can’t | Jesus Can | Jesus Can Through Me