For this is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. (1 John 3:11)
Have you ever gone to the store and forgotten why you went? I’ve done this a time or two. Okay . . . I’ve done this often! Before I leave for the store, my list is always clear enough in my head that I don’t think I need to write it down. However, something mysterious happens in my brain while en route to the store. My mind starts to wander, and I begin to think about the fifty other things that I need to do. I flat-out forget what it was I am supposed to pick up.
Humans are forgetful. We need reminders. This is why the writer of 1 John reemphasized the fact that this message of loving one another was declared from the beginning. In other words, the message of loving one another was one of Jesus’ primary teachings, and we must never forget it.
Christians need to hear this command of loving one another again and again. We still struggle with selfishness, bitterness, and lack of forgiveness. The world is constantly judging the church for its judgmentalism and rigidness, but what if the people of God were known strictly for their love? It’s quite possible the unbelieving world might want more churches around and even consider embracing the Jesus message.
In every situation, decide to love one another.
Ed Love has been in active ministry for seventeen years. He currently serves as the church multiplication director for The Wesleyan Church.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
