Love One Another

 

     Getting involved in the lives of others takes time and sacrificial love. Our culture tells us to be independent, that we can do anything on our own, that we can be anything, do anything. We are strong and able.

     Life does not always go according to plan. We need humble hearts to be used by God in the lives of others. Tom lived in our neighborhood. He was born into a dysfunctional and troubled family. His daily bike rides through the parking lot of our church led him to our ministering angel on campus, our maintenance guy, Denny. Denny took Tom under his wing.

     Chatting with him for long periods of time brought out the best in young Tom. Soon, at a very young age, he began attending church. The pastors, the kids and other parents grew to love this very special child.

     His faith grew in Christ and his faith grew in humanity. He would grow into a handsome, hard-working young man, now a husband and a father of two girls. I had the privilege of connecting with him at Denny’s funeral and he was moved to tears as he spoke lovingly about this mentor, this man going out of his way to give hope to a child.

     What a beautiful story. Tom took hold of the faith through others able and willing to share his burdens, to offer hope and love in a fragile and sometimes frightening world.

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. John 15:12

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifice, God is pleased. Hebrews 13:16

Jesus,

You command us to love one another as You have loved us. Only with Your Holy Spirit, can we move into the lives of others. Show us how and when to bring hope, Your eternal hope to others.

Amen