Lifestyle Evangelism is . . . loving first.

Unconditional love and caring is one of the keys to help you to witness to your circle of influence (family, friends and loved ones). In the book, Who Cares About Love? Win Arn, Caroll Nyquist and Charles Arn define love in this way; “Love is intentionally doing something caring or helpful for another person, in Jesus’ name, regardless of the cost of consequence to oneself.”

In His sermon on the mount (Matt. 5:43-48), Jesus says that we should love our enemies. If we love only those who love us, what good is it? Do not even non-Christians show love to those who love them? Jesus says we are to take the initiative and show love, especially when we are not shown love. The Golden Rule (Luke 6:31) is a very positive statement telling us to take the initiative and treat others in the same manner in which we would like to be treated.

The authors of Who Cares About Love? have found that the happiest people are loving and caring people. This loving nature translates into a congregation in which parishioners show love and feel loved and cared for by one another. Sunday morning guests feel loved by the parishioners. It makes the church a place that reflects Christ’s love.

How are we doing as individuals and as members of St. Matthew Lutheran Church? I believe we are above average in being warm, open, loving and caring, to each other and to the guests who grace our presence. Of course, we can always do better, and being conscious of our efforts helps us to do better.

Have you gone out of your way to say “Hi” to someone lately? Even if it meant that the person may not acknowledge your greeting? Have you spoken a good word lately, complimented someone? With the Lord’s help, we can make a conscious effort to love our neighbor unconditionally, those people who need love and care. With the Lord’s help we can intentionally act first to show care and concern for others as Jesus showed for us.

39 of 52 © Rev. Ronald A. Bogs