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Pastor's Note | Monday, August 19th

As we have been working our way through the Letter of 1 John during our “Summer of Love” series, the central theme appears repeatedly: “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God” (1 John 4.7) and “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (1 John 4.11).
Love God. Love one another.

Jesus commanded his disciples to love one another (this is found in the Gospel of John, chapter 13, verses 33-34) so that others would see that they were his disciples and give thanks to God.

There is a profound connection between our loving God and loving one another. When we do so it shows we are Jesus’ disciples. It also makes an indisputable case for the reality of Jesus as God incarnate, and for the existence of a God whose essence is love. How can anyone deny the existence of God if they see the love of God demonstrated by followers of Jesus? Arguably it is impossible.

So, let’s take another look at what it is like to love one another. To love one another – brothers and sisters in the community of Christian faith – means we demonstrate sincere care for one another. I can’t find the words to adequately express how I see this happening day after day within our community of faith. Keep up the good work of caring for one another. It is noticed and it is a testimony to our experiencing the love of God.

To love one another also means to speak truthfully in love. This was touched on in a recent sermon. I will admit that confrontation is not my favorite activity, but, when we deal with one another in love, even confrontation becomes an edifying and positive experience. Seek to build up not tear down. Strive to encourage not discourage. Go to another to reconcile the breach in the relationship… do so with Christ-like humility and love.

Love one another.

It is not an easy command to follow, but let’s renew our commitment to love the Lord our God with our entire being, and to love one another and our neighbor.

Pastor Jim

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