From the Members
LIVE LOVE…LOVE LIFE
Bible Reading: Hebrews 13:1-8
What distinguishes us us Christians? Is it our views I on abortion or
homosexuality? Is it membership in a Bible-believing church?
Our stance on salvation? No. None of the above.
The first verse in Hebrews 13 reads, “Keep on loving each other as
brothers and sisters.” (NCV) The verses that follow provide some
samples:
· Welcome strangers (vs. 2)
· Remember those in suffering and in prison (vs. 3)
· Honor marriages (vs. 4)
· Keep lives free from love of money (vs. 5)
Who are the brothers and sisters I’m told to love? First, it’s my
family of origin, then my new family through baptism in Christ, and
finally all those
God places in my life path. Are there any issues you have within your
immed-iate family, our Christ Church family, or beyond, that need
confrontation
and/or forgiveness?
It is Christ’s love alone that can give the power to confront and
forgive. Corrie Ten Boom, a holocaust survivor, recounts a meeting with
the SS man who stood guard where she was imprisoned. After she preached
on forgiveness, he thanked her and said, “He, too, has washed away my
sins,” and extended his hand. She kept her hand at her side but prayed
swiftly, “Jesus, I cannot forgive him. Give me Your forgiveness.” Ever
so slowly, she was able to raise her hand to meet his and an incredible
thing happened. From her shoulder, through her arm and hand, a current
seemed to pass from her to him with a forgiving love for this stranger –
a love that even overwhelmed her.
“I give you a new command; love each other as I have loved you. All people will know you are my followers if you love one another,” John 13:34.
Prayer: “Lord Jesus, help us to love life and live love.”
Erline Sager
