|
|
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion January 27, 2007 L.O.V.E. |
A daily |
Frontline Devotion for Saturday, January 27, 2007 by Mary Jo Anderson
So, faith, hope, love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13
If you’ve recently visited a retail business, you can’t help but notice Cupid’s call. Love is in the air and in the aisles. Candy, cards, roses, and gifts of all sizes and price ranges remind us that the season for intentional acts of kindness is just around the corner. Romanticized? Most likely. Commercialized? Probably so, but I’m one of those who enjoys the burst of color and affection during an otherwise gloomy time of year. It is always good to be reminded of love.
Scripture reminds us often about the greatness of love. “For God so loved the world He gave His only begotten son . . .” (John 3:16) “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you . . .” (Matthew 5:44) “We love, because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) “the fruit of the spirit is love . . .” (Galatians 5:22) “For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any thing else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38, 39) “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God . . .” (1 John 4:7) Yes, God is great and love is great.
Love is not always easy, though. Beyond the typical friendly greeting or inquiry as to someone’s well-being, reaching out in love can be challenging. Relationships and situations can be difficult. Comfort levels may be compromised. Time may already be spread too thinly. Too many whys can get in the way. Good intentions fall back on platitudes or silence when we don’t know what to do or say. We want to help. We want to care. We want to love one another. We want to be part of the ministry of presence. But how?
Remember 1 Corinthians 13:13 . . . the greatest of these is LOVE. Put this little four letter word on your heart or in your pocket. It, along with the love of God, will help you do great things as a minister of presence. LISTEN. God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason. Let someone tell their story. Give them the gift of your undivided attention. OFFER your time or talent. Share a meal or skill. Make a date to be together. Call to check-in. Write a note, pass on an article of interest. Run an errand, help with a task. VALIDATE someone’s feelings and concerns. Be a sounding board. Try to understand their fears. Be a resource. Listen some more. EMPOWER others to move forward with friendship and prayer. Be patient. Offer hope. Keep listening. Keep praying. Be present.
“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)
Take that step, make that call. You will make a difference. L.O.V.E. today.
Dear God, Remind me, today and every day, how important the ministry of presence is. Let me love others, with the knowledge that I am able to do this because you first loved me. Work through me, beside me, and in me so that others may experience your great love. Amen.
|
|
All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
Visit the |
