They have a lot of activities. Services throughout the week. Departments for all the age groups as well as for those who are single or married. Outreach work to schools, hospitals and prisons. Supporting the causes in the community. There’s a lot going on.
They are certainly committed to their teachings. Every week the preaching and the bible studies are really important. It’s clear that they know what the teaching says on a range of issues and as a result they can hold strong to their positions even against resistance from outsiders. They are really hot on right teaching.
Are they noted for the love they express to each other?
I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. (Revelation 2:4-5 ESV)
Any organisation can be known for its activities and policies. What about the quality of its relationships?
There’s little point talking about the need to accept the good news and have activities around that if the love of Jesus cannot be seen through the love we have for each other. It’s a different kind of love to any love available in the rest of the world.
It’s the kind of love that does come from the heart, but is not dependent on sentiment. It’s the kind of love that lays down for the sake of others and is not dependent on getting love back. It’s the kind of love that says what is needed even if it feels like a wound to the recipient. It’s the kind of love that endures betrayal, rejection and abandonment. It’s the kind of love that care for the stranger and the opponent.
It’s the kind of love that highly esteems brothers and sisters in the family of God whatever social, economic or educational category they are classified in. That esteem comes purely on the basis that they are a part of God’s family – none is superior to another – each is treated in manners of humility and submission. This kind of love changes lives, families and communities. This kind of love transcends and penetrates through cultures.
It is divine love.
This is the hallmark of the church of Jesus Christ. It’s this love we need to express with each other. It’s that kind of love that will establish the change we long for.
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. (John 13:34-35 NIV)
Father, forgive us for getting caught up in activities and policies and abandoning the love we had at first. We turn to you now to remember that love and commit ourselves to seeing the love in you and expressing that love to each other.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 