We talk a lot about love these days. We live in a troubled world. There is a lot of anger. People are looking for a solution. They talk about choosing love. Jesus was talking about love a long time ago. He gave us a new perspective on how we can love one another and what difference it makes if we do.
The first step is to know that you are loved. Jesus told his disciples, “As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” It all begins with knowing that you are loved. Believe that Jesus died for you, that he took your sins upon himself, that he gave you a second chance, that he repaired you relationship with God and with yourself and with other people. Know that Jesus loves you. It is the first step to being able to love people.
The next step is to learn your life’s purpose. There is a correlation between finding your calling and being able to love people. Jesus told his disciples, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Their capacity to fulfill their mission was connected to their unity. Your understanding of your mission is connected to your love of people.
This week, think about a time when you were able to choose love, and the difference it made. Then think about something going on in your life right now where you could choose love.
In our sermon this Sunday we will talk about how to love people.