This is what I command you: Love one another. – (John 15:17, HCSB)
This is My command: Love each other. – (John 15:17, ERV)
But remember the root command: Love one another. – (John 15:17, MSG)
Each year, the more I experience life, the more I recognize how critical it is for us to prioritize following God’s greatest commands: to love God and love one another. If what we do and say is fueled by His love, we are making a positive impact on the world, no matter how small. It is amazing how this lens changes our approach in what we say and do. In fact, it truly changes our perspective on everything. One example that is a part of my everyday routine is to take our dogs on long walks. Each morning I anticipate how God might use me (and them) to love others well. Incredibly, there is some sort of interaction or exchange with others along our route every time we go out. Sometimes, it is simply a warm smile and friendly hello, yet other times it is a sweet stop to chat with another and extend kindness. On our route, as we near home, there is an older gentleman in a wheelchair. What began as simply smiling and waving, has turned into a stop each time Michael is outside, so that we can check in and he can give pets to the pups. Michael is forty years and ten days my senior, and sits outside working on Suduko puzzles and gladly greets us with a warm smile and gratitude. It amazes me how God can take something so ordinary that we already do, and use it as an opportunity to show His love to those we encounter. May we ever seek the Lord to lead us as we go, and may His love be made evident through our every word and deed.
We are commanded,
To love each other;
As mothers, fathers,
Sisters and brothers.
Wherever we go,
Whatever we do;
Our God is able,
To show His love true.
It is quite simple,
To choose to give love;
A smile and kind word,
Show hope from above.
May we make the choice,
To love each other;
In the little things,
It’s worth the bother.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You call and command us to love each other. Thank You that love looks different to everyone. Thank You that You can use a smile, a kind word, a friendly wave – all to be expressions of the goodness of Your love. Forgive us for the missed opportunities to love when we have been in a hurry, distracted, or “not in the mood.” Show us how to love in the little things, for it is the little things that lead to the enormity of how good and loving You are. Lead us to love those around us in ways that speak directly to the heart so that the recipient will feel and know how good You truly are. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we praise You as we choose to love each other well. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love. – 1 Corinthians 13:13
Revelations In Writing 