Inspired by 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18
“Now concerning love of the brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anyone write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another; and indeed you do love all the brothers and sisters throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, beloved, to do so more and more, to aspire to live quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we directed you, so that you may behave properly toward outsiders and be dependent on no one.” 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12
How does one be a good Christian? There is certainly no shortage of zealous Christians proclaiming their views on that very subject, complete with step-by-step guides and long lists of forbidden and required behaviors. But it doesn’t have to be that complicated. God himself taught us how to love, by sending his Son to tell us of God’s never-ending love and grace, and taking upon himself the penalty of our sin. To show that love to one another doesn’t require a step-by-step guide, or long lists of behaviors to perform or avoid, and it certainly doesn’t require passing judgment on how others are living their lives. Rather, we are called to live and love quietly, taking care of ourselves so we’re not a burden to others, and freeing up resources to help those truly in need. A life of simple contentment and charity is a far more powerful statement on the benefits of Christian living than harsh judgments and condemnation. Indeed we are called to a certain moral code and self control, but that is a result of God’s love shining forth in our lives, not the price of admission. Christ already paid that, because God loved us while we were yet sinners.
Let us pray. Loving God, you saw our fallen state, and you lifted us up and made us worthy of your love. Continue to show us your love, so that we may reflect that love to others, and help spread your peace throughout the world. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
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