Called to Love Others

One of fundamental callings is to love others. Jesus repeated states that we are to love others – even our enemies – as He loves us.

So what does this mean? Does it mean we’re friends with everyone? Nope. Does it mean we enjoy everyone’s company. No.

❤️It means we are willing to sacrifice for others and put others first just as Christ did for us.

❤️Loving others means showing compassion for them as Jesus did.

❤️ It means being patient with others as Jesus is with us.

❤️ It means thinking the best of others and not rushing to judgments.

❤️ It means seeing others – being aware of their lives and needs.

We could go on and on (and here’s a hint for next month – we will be doing just that.)!

Ultimately, we are called to love others by putting them first. Much of this month we’ve looked at specific ways we can do just that but ultimately all of those outward actions don’t mean anything if they are not driven by an inward attitude.

We must truly love others and this can be hard. I’ll be honest. I’m a loner and an introvert. I don’t enjoy small talk, large groups, socializing, etc. I find by the end of my work day my people meter is full. It is hard for me to do this sometimes because so many times people disappoint or frustrate or annoy or hurt you. But when I find myself spiraling into my negativity, I remind myself that Jesus came and lived here on earth. He interacted with people every day. And while they did frustrate him, hurt him, annoy him and disappoint him, He still loved them. He loved them so much He gave up heaven and lived as a poor nobody and died for them.

If Jesus can do all that, then surely I can find a way to get past my attitudes about the masses. Surely I be patient and kind to my coworkers. Surely I can think the best of strangers. Surely I can put others needs above my own.

So, we are called to love others as Jesus did and as Jesus loves us. Why, so we become more like Jesus and in doing so others see Jesus living in us. #CreatedForMore #APurposeDrivenLife