Rather, do you ever consider how you relate to the neighbors present within your own community? Do you even know your neighbors? Do you love them?
If we look at the example of Jesus, He enjoyed meeting and loving everyone around Him. He made it a priority to know others and help those who needed Him. In short, Jesus loved people - all people! You never found Christ stuck in a safe Christianized bubble that didn't interact with those who didn't know Him. No, neighbors got to know Christ because He wasn't hung up in selfish excuses as to why it would be too difficult to meet new people due to time constraints, workloads, or because it might seem uncomfortable relating to strangers. Yes, Jesus was out there loving and helping people while showing them first-hand what was right and good according to God's law.
People were Jesus' first priority. His entire life was intended to bring God's message of good news and everlasting hope to all mankind and, as only God could accomplish, Jesus continues to offer this same message to everyone He encounters - even today. (Have you heard of Jesus? Have you encountered His Name? If so, seek Him further - for He has good news for YOU!)
Furthermore, take a closer look at Jesus' neighbors. Most of these folks did not live up to the judgement of church standards. Many were prostitutes, thieves, lepers, etc. But Jesus didn't care. He loved everyone all the while knowing they needed God's life-giving solution. No matter what their circumstance, walk of life, or past belief system, the Messiah came to pave the way and secure mankind's future with His own blood and sacrifice. Whether one accepts or rejects His gift, one thing is for certain... Jesus definitely loves people. JESUS DEFINITELY LOVES YOU!!! As a result, the life of Jesus cannot be ignored by anyone! For true LOVE can never, ever be ignored.
So, dear friends, knowing that we are to mirror our lives after Christ, let's think about His instruction in Matthew 5:14-16. Jesus said, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."
With this in mind, today I encourage everyone reading this blog to step outside their comfort zone and let your light shine as Christ did. Love everyone you encounter. Always be willing to introduce yourself to someone new and share the good news of Jesus in your life. Do good and allow His Spirit in you to be noticed! We were made in His image. We were created to relate and love as His people - letting His light shine through us. So, let's not be weird, judgmental, "cult-like" Christians who never stick their heads out of their turtle shells in order to meet and greet anyone new. Rather, let's make it a priority to introduce ourselves, to care about others, to build relationships, to help those who need help... to love as Christ first loved us!
I pray that others will see Jesus' love through our daily obedience to Christ's call. May His grace be apparent in our lives. May we positively impact His kingdom as we stand as living testaments to His good news! WOO HOO! Ladies, this is the day to let your light (HIS LIGHT) shine! Now get out there and LOVE like your King has decreed! What a blessing to faithfully do as He commands!
The entire law is summed up in a single command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:14)
Blessings!
~Victoria
© The Devoted Woman | Victoria Anderson
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