Dear Friends,
As we journey through these challenging times, it's essential to remember the teachings and warnings given to us in the Scriptures. The Apostle Paul, in his second letter to Timothy, provides a vivid description of the last days:
"But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy." (2 Timothy 3:1-2)
These words resonate deeply with the reality we see around us today. Our world is increasingly characterized by selfishness, materialism, pride, and a general disregard for righteousness. In such an environment, reflecting Christ's love becomes important and essential.
### The Call to Reflect Christ
The darkness of these times can make finding and expressing love seem challenging. However, it is precisely in this environment that our calling to reflect Christ becomes even more significant. Jesus said in John 13:34-35, "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 you are my disciples if you love one another."
Reflecting Christ's love means embodying His teachings and example daily. It means loving our neighbors, showing kindness to strangers, being patient and forgiving, putting others' needs before our own, and serving selflessly.
### Practical Ways to Reflect Christ's Love
1. **Acts of Kindness**: Small acts of kindness can significantly impact. These acts reflect Christ's love, whether it's helping a neighbor, volunteering at a local charity, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need.
*Scripture Reference*: "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." (Hebrews 13:2)
2. **Forgiveness**: In a world quick to anger and slow to forgive, offering forgiveness can be a powerful testament to Christ's love.
*Scripture Reference*: "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." (Colossians 3:13)
3. **Compassion**: Show compassion to those in need. Empathy and understanding can bridge many gaps and heal many wounds.
*Scripture Reference*: "Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble." (1 Peter 3:8)
4. **Sharing the Gospel**: The ultimate act of love is to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others. Our words and actions should always point back to Him.
*Scripture Reference*: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation." (Mark 16:15)
### Encouragement to Continue
Living out Christ's love in the last days is difficult, but it is our calling. It requires perseverance, prayer, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit. Remember that you are not alone in this journey. As we strive to reflect Christ in a cold world, we draw strength from His promises and presence.
God's word will not return empty but will accomplish His purpose (Isaiah 55:11). Let us hold fast to our faith and continue to love one another earnestly. By doing so, we reflect the light of Christ in the darkest of times and fulfill His command to love.
With love and encouragement,
Pastor Terry
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