Saturday 16 February 2013

Background

No one can accuse John of not getting his message across. Attimes he seems like a broken record as he repeats the above versein many different ways throughout the letter. John certainly wouldhave made a good preacher as he obeys the old maxim:

1. Tell people what you are going to tell them.
2. Tell people.
3. Tell people what you have just told them.

But how  are we to love? Different partsof the Bible offer various suggestions, but look at what Paulwrites in 1 Corinthians13:4-7. As you read the verses, replace the word lovewith your own name. Here is something to live up to.

John ends this passage by way of encouragement. To attempt tolove our brothers and sisters can lead to exhaustion, but we aregiven the strength of Christ in order to carry it out. God's lovefor us means that "his commandments are not burdensome".

To Ponder

• Many newspapers print the 'Love is ...' cartoon by Kim Casali.On a single frame there is the phrase "Love is", followed by adefinition or example of what love is, and an accompanying drawingof a couple to illustrate it. Think up some examples for yourself of what'love is ...'

• How can you and/or your church put into practice what 'love is...'?

• Think of times when you have given love to someone, only toreceive greater in return. What might that tell you about the loveof God?