I heard the saddest words today. Two believers in Christ were discussing an issue about which they had differing opinions. The older of the two seemed smug as he wielded Scripture like a weapon, chopping away at the things he saw as wrong in the others life. The younger man just seemed weary of the lecture, weary of the other person, and discouraged.
As the exchange drew to a close, the older man commented on the others apparent disinterest. You used to be eager, he started, and then abruptly quit. I dont know what it is you want.
You missed the chance to love me, the young man said. In all the time youve known me, what has seemed to matter most to you is pointing out what you think is wrong about me. What do I want? I want to see Jesusin you and through you.
Had this been said to me, I thought, I would have been devastated. In that moment I knew the Holy Spirit was telling me there had been people I had missed the chance to love. And I knew there were people who couldnt see Jesus in me either.
The apostle Paul tells us that love must be the underlying motive in anything we do; in everything we do (1 Cor. 13:1-4). Lets not miss the next chance to show love.
First Corinthians 13 is often referred to as the love chapter. Jesus said that love would be the distinguishing characteristic of a Christian. Hours before He went to the cross He said: A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another (John 13:34-35). Sim Kay Tee