March 20

May the Lord Direct

"May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance." 2 Thessalonians 3:5

God’s love has been given to us freely that we might pass it on to others. Some days that is easier said than done. On those days, when everything is going wrong and we are tired of being the "good guy," it is then that we need to call upon Christ and ask him to give us his perseverance to love even the unlovable. Active love chooses not to be offended, not to get caught up in the mayhem of the situation, not to keep score, not to add to the situation. Active love chooses instead to say a kind word, to be patient, and to keep the peace, even though our flesh wishes to do otherwise. God chose to love us when we were unlovable. God has directed us to continue this cycle of love. We are the ones He has asked to keep the ball rolling. No where in this scripture does it say that this will be an easy process. In fact, just by using the word "perseverance," he lets us know it will take determination on our part. Remember, though, that we are not alone. Jesus is right there with us and he persevered in even tougher situations. He loved those that physically abused him and tortured him. He loved them to the point of dying for them. That is the example we have set before us. That is the type of perseverance we are asked to give. We have Christ, who has set the example, walking with us and directing us. We need but listen for his voice. Let us choose this day to love as God loved, and persevere as Christ persevered that we might become more like this savior whom we adore.

Father, help us to love as You love. Teach us to love others, especially those who are unlovable. Jesus, teach us to persevere as you did; to reach out to those who were hurting and to never give up on anyone. We thank you for your example and pray that as we learn to love as you love, we will bring glory and honor to your name. Amen