Changed by Love
God sees every individual as beloved and worthy of His love, which challenges us to reevaluate how we treat others. Embracing this perspective can be a profound change, but it requires us to let down our guard and make ourselves vulnerable. It also means accepting that we may not always be right.
Jesus's teachings revolve around transformation, not only for our neighbors but for ourselves. When we love God and love others, we are transformed by that love. This transformation leads us to grow in ways we couldn't have imagined, becoming more compassionate, empathetic, and caring individuals.
It's crucial to understand that transformation doesn't occur solely through sermons or songs; rather, it is the love of God at work within us. This divine love is experienced when we love others. That's where the magic happens, where we become people we hardly recognize, individuals who are more loving, compassionate, joyful, and caring.
As followers of Jesus, our shared mission is to help others discover the freedom that comes from a relationship with Him. The best way to achieve this is by striving to love our neighbors, regardless of their beliefs or background. Jesus challenges us to see them as He does, as neighbors worthy of love, and to be open to receiving loving rebukes from each other when necessary.
Discipleship is about living as disciples of Christ among others, and it's contagious. As we stretch ourselves to love others, we are compelled to lean more into God's love. Our limitations in loving others serve as reminders to seek God more fervently.
““I really only love God as much as the person I love the least.” ”
Dorothy Day's words are a poignant reminder: "I really only love God as much as the person I love the least."
We are called to love even those we find challenging because they are also loved by God. This love can transform us into agents of peace and reconciliation, something our world desperately needs.
Let's celebrate Jesus's love and sacrifice in our daily lives by actively loving our neighbors. The words of 1 John 3:18, reminds us not to love with mere words but with action and truth.
May we live out the love of Jesus and be reconcilers in a world in need.