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