Love One Another

Today's reading: I John 3-4

For this is the message you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. I John 3: 11 NRSV

If only Christians would follow this simple message.

Imagine what ministry would take place through such loving relationships! What happiness would be found as one grew up in the church -- who would want to leave such a loving atmosphere? If Christians loved one another as they have been commanded to do, there would be less comments in the media about how hypocritical church members and churches are to one another. In fact, if we Christians spent more time loving one another we would work more together and possibly have less denominations and splinter groups.

If we loved one another, folks would be lining up in droves to be visitors and we would have no end to new members. Our love would shine out of our hearts and be seen clearly by those on the outside.

However, we don't really love one another. We are too busy gossiping, criticizing, judging and ignoring each other. We are only interested in our own agendas rather than kingdom building. And when we do participate in ministry, we don't do it in a loving manner.

But this is the message we have heard from the beginning: that we should love one another.

Let's start today.

God, help us to love one another. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims