Like many of you, I have struggled with everything that has been going on around us over the last few months. We have seen the COVID-19 pandemic slow everything normal to a halt. Families have struggled with job loss, challenging financial issues, loss of loved ones, and I could go on. Then we see the rioting in America over the racial injustice going on in our country. Many have rushed to social media to give an opinion that has stirred things even more. We are so politically separated. Negativity is at an all time high. Frustration seems to be the adjective of the day, and it seems like this could go on for a long time.
I came across a great Billy Graham quote that reminded me that I am not home here on earth. He stated, “The Bible says that as long as we are here on Earth, we are strangers in a foreign land. There are enemies to be conquered before we return home. This world is not our home; our citizenship is in heaven.” It was a great reminder to me that I’m not at home here, but while I pass through, I can make a difference for the Lord.
As I searched scripture for answers to all that is going on around us, the Lord kept drawing me back to John 13:34-35 —
34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Love is the identity mark of a true disciple of Jesus. In the plan of Jesus, He modeled love for us, and it is His desire that we love others in the same way that He has loved us. I am reminded that in my most unlovable moments, Jesus loves me.
For the person/family that has been struggling with job loss or furlough – love them!
For the person/family that has battled financial issues – love them!
For the person/family dealing with addiction brought on by all of the stress they are carrying from the last few months – love them!
For those that do not understand the racial injustice, riots and protesting – love them!
For the person that does not stand on your side politically – love them!
For the person that does not believe the same way that you believe about God or any other issue – love them!
While it seems that frustration, negativity and fear are growing every day, loving like Jesus loved can and will make a difference. It’s the opportunity for the believer in Jesus to make it very clear that love is the only way through this very difficult season in which we are living.
My prayer is that we will love well and take opportunities to share the love of Jesus with EVERYONE around us.