Today is Your Opportunity to Love

John wrote, "Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth." (1 John 3:18)

Alice C. Linsley

Recently my niece described one of her friends as "a person who loves well." She was speaking of a woman who is able to connect with people from many cultures and religions. That person doesn't see differences as a barrier, but rather as an invitation.

Jesus was such a person. He loved well, and more importantly, he was the embodiment of the kind of love that sinks into the heart of those around him. No wonder crowds followed him!

At times Christians come across as harsh and judgmental. We are too quick to assume that people we don't know are lost or unorthodox. We are too quick to argue rather than to listen and to ask non-confrontational questions. No wonder many want nothing to do with us.

Today an opportunity to love someone as Jesus loves them may present itself. Do not miss that opportunity because you have judged that person. Take down the barrier of judgment. Do not miss an opportunity because the person has hurt you. Set aside that injury. Do not miss an opportunity because you think that person annoying or ignorant, or because you hate their politics. Only a person who loves well can show people the true nature of Jesus Christ. 

Today watch for your opportunity to love well.

Related reading: Greater Than Unconditional Love; The Goal of Discipleship; How is Your Vision?

Redemption: The Disciple’s Expectation

Hope Ellen Rapson


One of the last commands of Jesus to his disciples was, “Look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28)

In the context of his immediate arrest, trial, crucifixion, and burial, the Lord instructed them to “expect their redemption.” Christians often forget that this command was given not only to the twelve, but to all believers.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer said:

“Look up, you whose gaze is fixed on the earth, who are spellbound by the little events and changes on the face of the earth. Look up to these words, you who have turned away from heaven disappointed. Look up, you whose eyes are heavy with tears and who are heavy and who are crying over the fact that the earth has gracelessly torn us away. Look up, you who, burdened with guilt, cannot lift your eyes. Look up, your redemption is drawing near. Something different from what you see daily will happen. Just be aware, be watchful, wait just another short moment. Wait and something quite new will break over you: God will come.”

This is the promise of Jesus Christ; God is ever present and ever working to redeem his disciples. He promises redemption. It draws near. This is the disciple’s daily stance of faith. Always, look up!


Related Reading: True Disciples Watch For Christ's Return; Rabbi Kaduri on the Messiah's Identity