Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
We all make to-do lists. I am at the age where, if I do not write it down, it will be too-bad. Most lists are mundane; dry cleaning, oil change etc. Imagine this list from Paul as a to-do list! The mundane to-do list will be impossible without transportation by car, train, or bus. The to-do list from Paul, to love zealously what is good and to serve the Lord in zeal and trial in prayer, is impossible without transformation by the Holy Spirit through believing in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Regardless of the “love stories” we see on TV, there is only one way to love someone genuinely. That way is to surrender yourself completely to them, to want what is best for them, and to serve them and sacrifice for them. Jesus Christ displayed the most genuine love in history. He loved us and honored us, zealously and patiently going to the cross in sacrifice for our sins. He contributed to our needs with his mercy and showed hospitality by making a way and preparing a place for us in his kingdom. That changes things, and us!
Dear Lord, thank you for your amazing love for us. May our response be a genuine love that surrenders to your holy will and love for us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church