February 15, 2012

As I reflect back on the past few days, there are two things that stand out the most.  The first is the sudden passing of Whitney Houston, the second is Valentine’s Day.   These two occurrences are not directly related or even remotely similar, but I have found some one common theme.

Observing conversations, I can see that there is a dichotomy in the views that people have for both of these events.   Regarding Whitney Houston, there are people that are sad and devastated at the loss of an icon, a mom, a daughter, an individual with great talent and also great pain and then there are other people who are indifferent or callous to her passing, feeling as though it was a result of her choices, her sins, and the way she lived her life.    Similarly, for Valentine’s Day there are people who are ecstatic about the day and the celebration of love, and then there are those that would hide under a rock for the day if they could.   I am not standing in judgement or support of either view, in fact, I am here to say that whatever your view, wherever you stand, Jesus Loves You.

What happens often time when there are incidences that cause such strong opposing views, people are left feeling hurt, unaccepted, wrong, or mute – because differences are not always handled with love.   People on either end begin to attack one another, creating an even wider gap between them.   These life challenges remind us of the fickle nature of humanity, but also reinforces the faithfulness of God.    God loves you unconditionally.   When you don’t agree with Him, He loves you.  When you don’t do things His way, He still loves you.  If you don’t know anything else, know that Jesus loves you.   People may not accept you and may not agree with you, but the creator of all heaven and earth loves and accepts and adores you.  Also, when you interact with others, remember that in all their issues and regardless of their views God loves them too!

Rest In His Love!

Pearls In Practice

How do you treat others when their opinion is different than yours?   How are you treated by others when you have differing opinions?   Reflect on how you can allow God’s love to transform how you react in both scenarios.

Prayer Starter

Lord, while it is hard for me to comprehend, I know that you love me beyond measure.   I know that you love me unconditionally and in spite of anything that I do.   There are times when I find myself being subjected to receive or perform actions that do not stem from love, and while those actions will leave me momentarily feeling unloved or not accepted, I know that your for love me is for all eternity.

Empower Your Pursuit

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” ~ Romans 5:8