​ONE ANOTHER

“Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.”
- Romans 12:10 

Monday we had our Fall Festival at the church. On one hand, it was cool to see so many on our property, from school families, to church families, to community families, it was amazing! Though it was good to see such a great response, numbers are not our goal. What was even greater for me to see was how EACH part does A part for the benefit of ALL parts! And that is what love does. It sacrifices self for the bigger picture, and the bigger picture is His kingdom! That is what the Lord wants of His Church, to love one another practically, passionately, and purely. On Monday, it was not only evident, but also fun!

Unity and love are two factors that we need to give constant attention to in our church and in our lives. Why? Because the effect of sin is selfishness. Unity sets my sights on a bigger picture than me. Love moves me to die to self and be like Jesus to others.
 
Here are a few reasons to strive for unity in the Body of Christ:
1) Unity in God’s church brings God glory (John 17:22)
2) Unity in God’s church opens the door for great opportunity (to witness to others of why you do what you do) (John 17:21)
3) Unity in God’s church shows maturity (Eph. 4:12-13; Phil. 1:27)
4) Unity in God’s Church is a blessing (ps. 133)

Here are a few reasons to love in a big way:
1) Love is what Jesus commanded us to do (John 13:34)
2) Love is what Jesus wants us to be known for (John 13:35)
3) Without love we are nothing and all sacrifices are meaningless (1 Cor. 13)
4) Love is what endures beyond everything (1 Cor. 13:13)

So, let’s continue to consider one another in order to stir up love and good works (Heb. 10:24), especially as we head into a season of thanksgiving and celebrating the birth of Jesus! Let’s love God greatly, love one another practically, and share Jesus effectively.

Blessings,
Jesse