I once read about a church in medieval days that was breaking apart because of disagreements between it's members. The church held a meeting to decide what to do. The pastor told the congregation he would like them to study the subject of love together for one year. When the year was over, then they could make a decision on what to do. His congregation agreed to this. They did study love for one year and were still studying it 100 years later. The church stayed together because of love.
"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive anything you have against one another. Forgive, as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." Colossians 3:12-14
7 comments:
A timely reminder - if we cannot love each other what message does that send to the world?
We are undergoing 'growing pains' in our current congregation - I am very much taking these words to heart!
Wise pastor!! I thyink that's why John always talks a lot about love in his gospel and the letters he wrote; it is so important for us to grasp that concept to love one another like Jesus loves us!
betty
Excellent post with a wonderful message.
This story meant a lot to me too.
Exactly! Jesus said if we don't love our brother whom we have seen, how can we love God whom we have not seen? And He said they will know that your are my disciples if you have love for one another.
Thanks for the reminder, Belle.
I like your blog.
NEW FOLLOWER.
Elizabeth
http://silversolara.blogspot.com
Luana- I think if the churches made love their aim, as Paul said, there wouldn't be the quarreling over minor things.
Elizabeth- Thank you. You have the same name as one of my sisters. I will go visit you too!
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