Love

My Pastor has been known to say, “Where two or more are gathered, there’s sure to be a fuss!” We all smile and nod at the thought, but after nearly 25 years of pastoral ministry, he’s seen his fair share of squabbles. I think all of us could offer a story of a situation that somehow went sideways. Perhaps voices were raised, tones were a little harsh, or expressions were misread.

Before I was married, I worked in the advertising department of our local newspaper. I had zero experience in sales or advertising but I was grateful that the Director saw my desire to learn and hired me anyway! Deadlines, quotas, and fierce competition among our young, all-female sales force created the perfect opportunity for “a fuss.” Often. As it turns out, our little team fought for one another as much as we fought with one another! We became a band of sisters in those years and I learned a lot from them.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved,

clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.

Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Colossians 3:14

However, there has been no better family than the Church that has taught me how to live with one another in love and forgiveness. When we all have the same starting place – God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved – we are able to see one another as family and drop the defensiveness that so easily divides us. We approach that person with compassion, kindness and humility – a true love for them and the desire to see God’s best fulfilled in their lives! And what a blessing when we are the recipients of the same care. Sure, we can fuss and we don’t always get it right, but our desire to live in unity and honor God with our relationships sets the stage for successfully loving one another. Mess and all!

What a beautiful recipe the Lord has given us. He reminds us who we are, who we belong to, and how to walk out the messiness of family life (at home, work and church) in a godly way. Then He reminds us to put on love so we are connected with one another in His perfect unity. It is just another way that He whispers….

You are adored.