It is “Easter Monday.” During this COVID-19 pandemic and “stay in place” mandate, this observance was like nothing most of us have ever experienced! Today I am remembering how Jesus accepted everyone…from Rahab the prostitute to the woman caught in adultery, the lepers, shared meals with tax collectors, and even asked for forgiveness for His enemies. He even accepts us: when we mess up, disobey knowingly, break our promises; but He keeps His. What a Mighty God we serve! Amen? Allow me to share a thought.
Romans 15:7 says “accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” I listened to a sermon by John Hagee on Resurrection Sunday and he spoke of Peter who hacked off the soldier’s ear. He remarked God does not call us to beat up each other. We trade a punch for a punch and an insult for a greater insult. This scripture teaches why Christ did what he did: why He accepts you, why He values you, why He forgives you, why He loves you. Because it brings praise to God! Read the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37, parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32 and the parable of the Unforgiving Servant in Matthew 18:21-35.
God calls us to accept, value, inspire, uplift, encourage, support, and forgive one another. This is the behavior that brings Him praise and lets His glory shine. Christians ought to be about love, compassion and empathy for our neighbors. COVID-19 but we can still pray for one another, bear each other’s burdens, forgive one another, build up one another…does not matter if one is poor, rich, weak or strong, a believer or nonbeliever. We are to accept and love in our deeds. It is wonderful how our cities and communities are coming together during this pandemic. Hebrews 10:24 “and let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” I am so thankful for my Sister of Strength who volunteers to take meals to her neighbor; and those who have aided the elderly by picking up medications or groceries, praying for our healthcare workers. This is what brings God praise.
Let us be intentional in saying and doing what brings God praise. You are God’s ambassador. When people see and hear you, they ought to see and hear Jesus. Let all that you do be done to bring God praise. He is worthy of our praise and greatly to be praised. Love as Jesus loves you. Bless others as Jesus blesses you. Forgive others as Christ forgives you. Amen.
John 13:35 “by this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Spring Street Christian Church 