It was a bitter cold day, and we were huddled together in an attempt to stay warm. The bagpipes echoed in the distance soothing each soul with a rendition of Amazing Grace. In spite of the icy drizzle falling and the sadness in each of our hearts at the tragic loss of a man we all loved, there was a warmth in our midst. As the graveside service came to an end, a friend with the voice of an angel led us in singing the simple little song taught to so many children over the years, Jesus in the Morning.

Her voice filled with passion and power inspired each one to sing. As we concluded our time in prayer, there were tears, hugs, and stories exchanged of the one we loved who was taken from us so suddenly. As I stood and observed the multiple groups of family and friends huddled together, I heard laughter coming from several gathered there that afternoon. At that moment, I thought, “This is what sets a Christian apart from the world.” Because of the hope we have in Jesus, we can offer sincere unconditional love to one another, exchange a warm embrace, share stories of God’s faithfulness and sweet memories, and even find laughter in the midst of deep pain and sorrow. 

In Romans 12, the apostle Paul clearly states the marks of a true Christian. He says, Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another (Romans 12: 9-13, 15).

So, what was it that set those huddled under that tent on a wet cold winter’s day apart from the rest of the world? What were the distinguishing “marks” they possessed? What was the hope they shared? How could they find joy and laughter in the midst of deep pain and sorrow? The answer: Jesus, Jesus, Jesus in the morning, Jesus in the noonday, Jesus when the sun goes down.

John, the disciple and apostle of Christ said, ^“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus.  We love because He first loved us. (1 John 4:7-12,15-17, 19).

This Valentine’s Day and each and every day, we are to love one another because He first loved us. His love should be on display in those who claim to be His!

Dianne

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

John 13:35 NIV