2 Corinthians 6:3-13 Love and Affection

2 Corinthians 6:3-13
I have known way too many pastors who have come straight out of seminary ready to serve the Lord in every way possible. They are ready to open their hearts to the entire congregation and the whole community. They think that because they love, they will be loved in return. That is no necessarily so. Many will open their hearts to those whom God has called to love and serve them and the Lord. Others will not. Some pastors will not even make it three years because of this lack of love and affection from people they have opened their hearts to. They will resign from the ministry or they will move on hoping that the next congregation will be more willing to open their hearts.

This is not a new thing. Paul loved the people of Corinth; yet, not all of them loved him. Jesus loved the world so much that he was willing to give his life for all who would believe. Yet, not everyone loved him. His ministry, too, lasted only about three years. Those whom he came to love crucified him. The world hasn't changed that much. Many still do not love him. Even many who  claim to be his followers do not truly love him. Nor, will they all love everyone who follow in his footsteps.

May God open wide the hearts of all believers so that we might receive and give love - a fair exchange.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Luke 10:25-37 Who's Your Neighbor?

Luke 10:25-37 NIV
I have moved around a lot! I have a had a lot of neighbors; some good, some not so helpful. By what degree do I discern whether a neighbor is good or not? Basically, it comes down to a motherly instinct. It comes down to whether my neighbors treated my children or grandchildren fairly.

If you want to irritate me quickly, go up against a child (not just mine, any child). That does not mean that I will not care for you and pray for you. It simply means I will protect those who cannot protect themselves (children, seniors, handicapped, etc..). I think that most mothers are like that and fathers, too. To be a good neighbor treat your neighbor's children with compassion and mercy. Do not hinder them; but, help them.

Love not just your neighbor as yourself; but, your neighbor's children, as well. Remember, it takes a whole community to raise up a child in the way they should go.

God's Peace - Pr. J

Proverbs 11 - Be Nice!

Be nice!  That seems to be the gist of Proverb 11. Being "nice," being honest, being fair, is not only a blessing to those whom you are being nice to, in the end you will feel blessed. "Those who are kind benefit themselves, but the cruel bring ruin on themselves." (vs 17 NIV)

So much wisdom found in Proverbs; both blessings and warnings. Warnings not to what is wicked, but to do good. Warnings to not place your trust in possessions of even man. There is good advice found in Proverbs 11. Read it and remember it. Worship the LORD your God and follow in the path that He has set before you, doing what is right an avoiding what is wrong.

God's Peace - Pr. J