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In a chaotic world where people are positioned and pushed
into corners of belief and statements that may not be wholly
theirs; where people are called bigoted and intolerant if
they simply disagree with popular opinion of the day or
possibly even of the moment; where political correctness
rules the day even in the face of disregard or potential
unpreparedness for disaster and terrorism—the question
remains, “What does love look like?”
Years ago the question rang out to hearty amens, “What would
Jesus do?” Now to ask the question by some seems bigoted and
confrontive. But those of us who are sold out to Jesus
Christ and who do our best to walk in His footsteps have to
face it. What does “love your enemy” look like?
What does it mean to offer “a cup of cold water” to
one who doesn’t look like you, sound like you, believe like
you, or even like you?
Recently the slaughter of victims in a gay bar in Florida
have brought all sorts of opinions to the fore. Is it a gun
problem? A gay-hatred problem? Terrorism? Is the solution
political? I believe Jesus calls us higher.
The Good Samaritan’s ministry to the broken and hurting man
confronts us.
The Samaritan didn’t demand the hurting man pass a religious
test before he bowed down to heal the wounds; before he
picked the man up to carry him to where he could receive
healing and help.
He didn’t even know the man’s political persuasions
before he offered to pay the debt incurred by the broken and
needy man. Actually, we don’t even know that the Samaritan
knew the needy man’s name. He just knew he was
needy--different than him, but needy.
There are those who cry out JUDGMENT on those in sin. There
are those who cry out in hatred toward those involved in
homosexual activity. But I wonder if those who cry loudest
for judgement have forgotten to reexamine the sin of their
own lives and hearts.
It is not a sin to speak truth
in love; it is not a sin to bring God’s Word to people
who are caught up in activities that God’s Word calls sin.
But at the same time, we need to examine the fruit of our
own Christian life—am I bearing the fruit of the Spirit of
God to needy people? Do I even talk with people not like me?
Do I leave the comfort zone of only being with those with
whom I agree or who agree with me, to share the love of
Jesus—even by demonstrating it in lifestyle without words—to
those who need Him?
How can we best show His love to the world? Because it’s
true that God so loved that He GAVE His only son Jesus. God
gave. I believe that’s our best clue. As we lead with love,
we’re called to GIVE to those who need Him—an ear, an arm, a
shoulder on which to cry, a heart that hurts when they hurt.
I believe what happened in Florida breaks the heart of God
and should break our heart. Evil happened—and left suffering
people in its wake. There are those who lost their lives
instead of living out their days. There are families who are
hurting and missing loved ones.
There are those we don’t know, who need our prayers
and love. BUT, the best demonstration of Christian love has
also stepped in—first responders helping, surgeons,
chaplains, pastors and ministers, and people there to bring
comfort and help to those hurting. And when that happens,
Jesus WINS—not evil.
In light of how Jesus confronted sin and religious
attitudes, and yet died on a cross while forgiving those who
rejected Him—and that includes ALL of us—I simply wonder
what love looks like? I believe it looks like Jesus. I
believe it means taking His love to our neighborhood, our
streets, our families, and to those who don’t yet know Him.
I believe it looks like offering some help to the needy and
confused.
Ask Jesus today, “Lord what can I do?” and then step out and
do what He shows you. And then others will know
personally—through you—what love looks like.
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