Corinthians 13:4-7 & 14:1-5 tell us, "Love is patient, kind, not envious or boastful, doesn't insist on its own way, rejoices in the truth, bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things....Pursue love and strive for the gifts of the Spirit...so that the church may be built up."
"Paul stresses that those who would be disciples of Jesus must always act and speak out of love to build up the Body of Christ on earth which is the church. He cautions against dissent, discord, jealousy, envy, a critical mind, and a loose tongue. If we are to follow the great commission of Jesus to go and make disciples, we must always act from a heart of love for others. We must get our own needs, ego, and self out of the center and place Jesus as our center to see every person through the eyes of Christ.
"My task is to build up and never build fences or walls. My job as Jesus' disciple is to be inclusive, never exclusive. The body of Christ is never to be a fraternity or sorority, but an open door to all comers.
"Jesus, may I be used to build up your church where you've planted me. Amen."
This written, long ago by my husband, Jerry, is still useful as a reminder for me to love others no matter what. Pursuing love with all people still is first in my desire to be like Christ. Christ pursued each of us through one thing or another, such as: through a book we may have read, through a neighbor or friend needing help, being in a difficult situation that seems to have no remedy, and just being lonely. When I feel lonely, I may wish for a phone call, when my Lord is only a prayer away. The first thing I must always remember: He is only as far away as my voice speaking His name.
I pray you and I will always remember His name....Jesus!!
Jo INMN
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