Love in Action: The Heart of the Christian Community
Jesus’ new commandment to love one another is a fundamental aspect of Christian living. As He loved us, so we must love others, and it’s through this love that everyone will know we are His disciples (John 13:34-35). But what does this love look like in practice?
From Words to Deeds
1 John 3:18 reminds us that love is not just about words or speech, but about actions and truth. As dear children in Christ, we are called to demonstrate our love through tangible acts of kindness and generosity. But how do we do this as a body of believers?
The Ultimate Example
1 John 3:16-17 provides a powerful example of what love looks like. Jesus Christ laid down His life for us, and we ought to be willing to do the same for our brothers and sisters. This isn’t about grand, heroic acts; it’s about responding to the needs of those around us. If we have material possessions and see someone in need, yet show no pity, how can the love of God be in us?
Opportunities to Love
While we may not be called to lay down our lives, we will have opportunities to provide for others who are less fortunate. We can participate in giving to others through ministries at our church, help start initiatives that serve the hungry and marginalized, or simply give to our church’s benevolence fund.
The Local Church: A Beacon of Love
As Thabiti M. Anyabwile notes in his book What Is a Healthy Church Member?, the local church is where love is most visibly and compellingly displayed among God’s people. It’s where the ‘body of Christ’ is most plainly represented in the world.
Putting Love into Action
So what does this look like in practice? It means trusting God’s Spirit to empower us to love in deed and in truth. It means praying for opportunities to serve others and meet their needs in His strength. Father, give us opportunities this week to love in deed and in truth, that the watching world may be drawn to Christ as we act to meet their needs.
A Call to Action
Let us commit to putting love into action, trusting God to guide and empower us. As we do, we will become a beacon of hope and love to a world in need, and the watching world will be drawn to Christ as we demonstrate His love in tangible ways.
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