John 15:16&17 (NLT), "You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. I command you to love each other."
I am not talking about preparing a speech on how I will respond to people who are hurt and lashing out at the church; this goes so much deeper. Although I have had sterile little note cues posted on my computer to help me say no, in love; now my Father has matured me. Allowing God’s love that dwells and wells up in me to flow out of as a natural by product of what Jesus has done on the cross for all of humanity. Extravagant love. Saying all that, you must know that people come up to me with the most bizarre request. Sad stories of betrayal, manipulation, addiction and how they have been wronged, how their family will not help them. These situations are the reality of their life. Coated with desperation as they begin to unfold a strategy to have their needs met. Many times meeting this person’s financial need is not really love at all. What they need to be told, "Money I have none; but, let me tell you about Jesus - the author and finisher of your faith. Let me introduce you to some folks who were in the same boat as yourself many years ago and they let Jesus do the work in the hearts, mind and soul." In this case love is not handing over money to pay for rent, food or clothing. Money is not their deliverer, Jesus is.
So these people, who are God’s children look at me angrily asking, "Who do you think you are?" The old me would have grabbed them by the collar and jacked them up against the wall. Because I am a product of Jesus Christ's love, that is who I am - I can kindly respond, "I was where you are at many years ago and it wasn't until I let Jesus come into my heart and work, that my life changed. He can do the same for you; if you let him."
Yes! Extravogant love. It's what get me through each and every day of my life!
Diane
Posted by: Diane | March 29, 2006 at 06:07 PM
I was there when you didn't jack that person up against the wall and shout the love of Christ into his face. I sat silently by as you turned his calloused heart into a melting pot of apologetic respect. As you allowed Christ to use you as the vessel to let him feel that love. He walked away knowing you, if no one else, you do know, not only where he has been, but where he can go~ if he allows his Saviour to do what He does best...save.
I say you still 'jacked him up against the wall' emotionally. :0)
Posted by: Lisa | March 30, 2006 at 06:35 AM
Beautiful comment, Lisa..and funny.
Well put, Anita.
Posted by: Lexie | March 30, 2006 at 10:00 PM