The Invitation To Love!

“But we who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not just please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good to build him up. For even Christ did not please himself, but just as it is written, “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” For everything that was written in former times was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and through encouragement of the scriptures we may have hope. Now may the God of endurance and comfort give you unity with one another in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:1-6 NET

Paul fervently emphasizes the vital importance of our spiritual strength, derived from an intimate relationship with Christ, presenting faith as an unwavering anchor for those embarking on a spiritual journey or wrestling with life’s myriad challenges. As seasoned and steadfast believers, we hold the sacred responsibility to embody and exemplify Christ’s principles and teachings in our everyday lives. Our existence should serve as vibrant, living illustrations of what it means to truly embrace His values—displaying profound love, heartfelt compassion, and unwavering integrity in every interaction, whether with cherished friends, supportive family members, or even those we encounter for the first time.

Our spiritual journey should be deeply rooted in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, rather than in our fleeting desires or superficial accomplishments. This divine empowerment uplifts the weary and the downtrodden, guiding them to uncover strength and resilience amid their trials. By becoming living testimonies of faith, we can face life’s adversities with unwavering courage and steadfast resolve, illuminating our paths with the love and grace of Christ in all dimensions of our lives.

Our calling transcends self-serving motives; it is not about seeking accolades or proudly displaying our spiritual milestones as if we have reached the summit of growth in our relationship with Jesus. Instead, our true mission lies in facilitating the profound experience of Christ being formed within others, nurturing their spiritual growth and development within a compassionate community.

This journey of transformation brings immeasurable joy and fulfillment through the Holy Spirit, particularly as we witness the spark of hope igniting in the lives of those we mentor. Observing remarkable, life-altering changes through Jesus Christ in others invigorates them to embrace a new way of living—one enriched with faith, overflowing with love, and marked by a deeper, more intimate relationship with God and fellow believers. Such witnessing of transformation invigorates our spirits, filling us with joy and hope, and propelling us to persist in our mission of cultivating a thriving community where everyone flourishes together, uplifting and encouraging one another on their intertwined faith journeys.

The deeper purpose of the Christian life transcends the superficial quest for fidelity of the scriptures. It is not confined to meticulous historical examination, profound academic inquiry, or the pursuit of a personal or unique revelation of Jesus that might elevate one above another. Rather, the essence of our faith lies in actively and authentically demonstrating Christ’s transformative love and teachings in our daily lives and communities. This mission is best achieved by yielding to the Holy Spirit, who is divinely designed to draw souls toward a richer, more profound relationship with Christ and each other.

The work of the Holy Spirit within us is essential for our own spiritual development and acts as a wellspring of inspiration and enduring hope for all believers. It compels us to cultivate an openness to His guiding presence, empowering us to align our thoughts, decisions, and actions with God’s divine will and purpose. Our mission involves actively participating in this transformative process by nurturing a receptive heart to the Holy Spirit's leading, which can be deepened through purposeful prayer, heartfelt worship, and meaningful fellowship with fellow believers.

As we embrace this path, we find ourselves harmoniously tuned to His gentle nudges and powerful movements, rather than attempting to manipulate or control His influence or the circumstances surrounding us. In doing so, we become integral instruments in the greater mission of drawing others closer to Christ, illuminating their paths with the same grace and love we have so generously received.

At first glance, when we encounter Paul’s exhortation, “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good to build him up,” it may seem as though he advocates for only speaking sweet and uplifting words to our neighbors. While affirmations and encouragement are vital, the Christian life encompasses far more than pleasant conversations; it demands an engagement with reality that often calls for hard truths. This includes articulating ‘good’ things that are difficult to hear—confronting bad theology or detrimental behavior that undermines our faith and sound doctrine with love and integrity. In other words “speaking the truth in love.”

Christ Jesus stands as the quintessential example of someone who chose not to retreat into comfort by sidestepping the troubles of others. Instead, He boldly immersed Himself in the lives of those around Him, extending compassionate support and transformative assistance in ways that altered destinies. His ministry was characterized by healing the sick, providing solace to the grieving, and advocating for the marginalized, exemplifying a selfless dedication that transcended societal boundaries and norms.

The Apostle Paul, in his writings, poignantly references Psalm 69:9 to encapsulate the depth of Jesus’ fervent commitment to God’s people. The verse proclaims, “Certainly zeal for your house consumes me; I endure the insults of those who insult you.” This statement reflects Jesus’s passionate devotion towards His divine mission and the yearning to rescue those in need. Despite facing misunderstanding and rejection from many, including some of his closest disciples, the weight of their struggles and His deep longing to draw them nearer to God pressed heavily on His heart. This fierce jealousy for God’s people fueled His purpose and showcased an unwavering love, even amid adversity.

Why does Paul draw upon the Old Testament to convey the transformative message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? He passionately believes that every word written in the Old Testament serves a divine purpose, offering invaluable insights and a foundation for understanding the full extent of God’s redemptive narrative, as revealed through Jesus Christ. Paul affirms that the continuity of God’s message across time provides profound depth and context to the new covenant established in Christ, illuminating our understanding of faith and our place within God’s unfolding narrative.

Stephen Barnett