“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35
Grace Harbor Church has a Church Membership Covenant that explains how and why we should conduct ourselves as the Body of Christ. It is divided into four sections that talk about unity, responsibility, ministry and testimony. I am going to write a series of devotionals about each of the verses used to undergird those principles.
UNITY is certainly contingent on there being love. We must act in love toward one another. The New Testament says a lot about how we should treat one another. In this verse from the Gospel of John, Jesus tells His disciples (and speaking clearly to us too) that the world will know that we are His disciples if we love one another. Conversely they will question whether we are His disciples if we don’t love one another. Love is a verb, not just a generalized description of what we think we ought to do. Love means acting in kindness, with grace and mercy, showing respect and appreciation at all times for one another. Not easy. Some are more lovable than others; some are more loving than others. But, this is not a request; it is a command and a responsibility of all members of the Body of Christ. Not just at Grace Harbor, but all believers. So today consider it personally. Will you love one another? The world is watching. Act in love without putting on an act. Sincerely love like Jesus. Love is the answer and it is our way. The way we act towards each other and everyone.
With His love and mine,
Pastor Fred
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