MLK Day

Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream. He dreamed that all people would get along and love one another. 

....but this wasn’t really his dream. This was God’s vision and purpose for humanity. This is God’s command for those who want to live with Him forever. 

As Christians, we are commanded to love one another to be saved. It’s quite terrifying in today’s world that we are even more near to the end, and yet, people who call themselves Christians find it impossible to show love and respect to one another! 

1 Peter 4:7-9 warns us that the end is near and “above all things have fervent charity <love> among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging.”  

Jesus Himself teaches, “a new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” John 13:34-35

Not only did He say for us to love one another, but He told us how we should love one another... “as I have loved you.” That’s a lot of love! He loves us no matter what we look like. He loves us despite our mistakes and shortcomings. He loves us through our anger and frustration. He loves us constantly. 

Then He says why we should love one another in this way... “by this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.” If we fail to love the way we are commanded, others will not be able to see Jesus in us. 

What a huge responsibility as a Christian! If we are truly disciples of Christ, we will love others no matter what. We will show them the true essence of our Savior— Love.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was not a dreamer. He was a Christian. A true Christian. What an amazing legacy and challenge his life leaves behind for us Christians to follow! Are we up to the challenge? Let’s forgive and love today. No one is promised tomorrow. And without forgiveness and love, we will not see Christ. According to Hebrews 12:14, our salvation depends on obeying this command.

Snow is the Right Color

After a beautiful snowfall, Katelyn (my 7 year old) and I walked across the street to visit a neighbor. Katelyn observed the sun reflecting off the thick blanket of white snow and said, “mommy, snow is so pretty. God picked the right color. It wouldn’t be as pretty if it was pink or red or green. I really like it white. It’s so bright and beautiful.” 

I just smiled at her thoughts. She is so right. God chose the perfect color to reflect Who He is. The brightness of a fresh blanket of snow is such a vivid reminder of the purity of God. It’s also a welcome reminder of His power to make us white as snow. 

Although it is freezing cold and the kids are home from school driving you crazy, try to focus on the glory of our God- His purity and righteousness and His power to cleanse us from sin. 

Let’s use this winter storm as an object lesson for our children. All ages of children need to be reminded of God’s amazing qualities.