It's On Us *

[Jesus speaking] By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.
John 13:35

It's easy to see love between people - whether romantic love or that of friendship. There are defining markers. Sweet people, kind people are often described as loving. The world's adage is that "Love is blind." I don't buy that exactly, but when love is involved, one has different reactions given the same circumstances.  Yes, that's true even in the simplest of things - think about it. Think of things you would let someone in your family do or "get away with," but if a total stranger did it, you'd be up in arms. That's what I'm talking about.

Peter describes that reaction best in 1st Peter 4:8 NLT ...love covers a multitude of sins. Not covers them like hiding them, but covers them in forgiveness. Forgiving and not holding against them. In truth, Peter encourages us to continue to show deep love for each other for that very reason.

Innate mercy and a full measure of grace flow from loving. It is the Father's example toward us. Think of the mercy and grace in our own lives - the sins that have been covered because of His great love. Really think on that. It is immeasurable and full of grace and it's on us. It is overwhelming.

He calls us His own. He lays claim to you and to me. Gives us His Name and the inheritance that comes with being a child of the Most High. We didn't earn it. It's love, pure and holy and righteous love. The world will know that we are His, if we have love for one another...  It's on us to exhibit His love. Can they tell it's on us?

Prayer:

Father,
          We want to live in love  - with You and with all those You've put in our path. Manifest Your light in us so that others will be drawn by it. May only what is pure and righteous and holy be poured out from us to those around us.We want to be like You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen