“And they’ll know we are Christians by our love…” ~~Hymn lyrics by Peter Scholtes
Peter Scholtes wrote the above words to a hymn of the same name in 1968. At the time, he was a Catholic priest in St. Brendan’s Parish on the South Side of Chicago. Although it only took him a day to write, the song has become widely known and sung by countless people. Jars of Clay and Rebecca St. James are just two of the Christian artists who have recorded it. You can read more about Mr. Sholtes’ life and how he came to write this song at: http://www.pscholtes.com/obituary.cfm
But, does the world really see the love of God in us? What kind of attitude do people sense in me? When Jesus walked on this earth, He was very clear in His instructions of how we should act as His followers. He said in John 13:35, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (NIV) In Matthew 22:34-40, the Pharisees tested Jesus by asking Him what the most important commandment of the Law was. He told them that the greatest and foremost commandment was to love God and that the second greatest was to “. . . love your neighbor as yourself.” (NIV) In Galatians 5:14, Paul repeats Jesus’ words and then adds in verse 15, “But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.” (NAS)
As followers of God and His gospel, we are witnesses for Christ. There is no option here. The question is this: are we good witnesses or bad witnesses? When people see me, hear me speak, watch my conduct in day-to-day life—do they see a good representation of Jesus and His character? I hope so. Or, do they see me using my words and a judgmental attitude to beat others up emotionally?
How can those who don’t know Christ yet want to be in His Church if they don’t see hope and encouragement waiting for them there? And, the Church is made of up of us—God’s people. So, it is up to us to show them what Jesus portrayed to all mankind when He came to this earth. That is, love and acceptance along with guidance and hope for a meaningful future.
There are many things and circumstances in this world to bring discouragement—stuff that can be beyond anyone’s control. I really think people are so weary of also being battered and bruised emotionally by other people. We should offer something different, something so appealing that they will come running to the One who can give them everything they need.
It is very simple. Love one another. Love those in the Church and those who are not. And, if there is someone who insists on causing trouble, walk away but continue to love them from a distance. Remember what Jesus said: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” (John 13:34, NAS)
So, let God’s love shine through you and onto others around you. You will be blessed beyond what you can imagine.
Lord, help me to be a good witness and representation of You—every day.
Be loved with His love, Tammy
©2012 Tammy Maseberg All Rights Reserved
