Scripture: 1 John 4:20
If anyone says, I love God, and hates a brother or sister, he is a liar, because the person who doesn’t love a brother or sister who can be seen can’t love God, who can’t be seen.
Thought for the Day: At their best, Christians have been amazing throughout history. Their work has been nothing short of miraculous in regard to sacrificing for the sake of the oppressed and hungry, the lost and victimized. At its worst, Christianity has been a mockery of the Jesus life. The author of 1st John (often referred to as the Elder) understood that hate, no matter how well you decorated it with religiosity, remains hate. The Elder pulled no punches in describing those who ‘do Christianity’ but don’t want to be followers of the Christ. They are liars. In our present national struggle over race and violence, there is a lot of hate. Some try to masquerade it, others don’t even make the attempt. As Christians, this could be one of those amazing moments in our history or one of our worst. It is our choice, but for it to become one of those miraculous times, our love of God must be demonstrated in a love of our brothers and sisters…no matter who they are.
Prayer: May your love, O God, continue to move us forward toward greater understanding, respect and love. May the ways of Jesus always be our ways. Amen.
