Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them. – 1 John 2:9-11
Sometimes Christians aren’t the best example of this passage above. Too often we focus on our differences and what divides us instead of seeking opportunities to come together and show each other love.
Every once in a while, though, someone acts in such a way that would make the apostle John proud.
I preached this weekend and in my sermon I mentioned that I hadn’t yet been able to get Tron: Legacy on Blu-ray. I was talking about trusting in God’s provision and how God had yet to provide Tron for me. It was basically a joke that wasn’t even in my notes that seeped out of my brain because I wear my nerd heart on my sleeve.
I didn’t think twice about the joke as I continued with my sermon and finished up service. After service, though, someone from our church found me and gave me Tron: Legacy on Blu-ray. She had run out right after service, bought me the movie and brought it back to me before I had gone home. I was blown away by her generosity and her example of the Christian love of which John writes.
Obviously I’m excited because I have Tron on Blu-ray, but I’m more touched by the simple act of love that was shown to me. I mentioned Tron because I thought it was funny and it related to the point I was making. But someone thought it was more than that and went out of her way to show me some generosity.
I wish people could see those interactions among Christians more than others. Even people outside the church have seen Christians arguing over Rob Bell and the vitriol that has marked those arguments. How much more could we do for the cause of Christ if people saw Christians making small expressions of love and generosity every day?
I don’t know the difference it would make it the world, but I know the difference that small act made in my life and it was awesome.
How do you respond when people make expressions of love and generosity for you?
when people make of generosity towards me i am still amazed that there are people who care that much about me and about spreading love. some one i know is preparing to give me a ride home from my mechanic in just a small while.