Love & Forgiveness

Scripture:
 Colossians 3:12-17

I remember growing up being in gym class at school.  Team captains would be picked then they would in turn choose members for their teams.  For those of us who were not popular, or good at sports, would be chosen last.  There is nothing worse than feeling unwanted and cared for.  The good news is that as believers in Christ we are chosen.  We are not unwanted left out or picked last because everyone has to be picked.  We are dearly loved and greatly cherished by God.  God gave everything for us.  He has given us the best gift anyone could ever receive.  In turn what do we do?  How do we act and treat other people?  God not only loves us but He loves everyone.  God wants all the people to choose Christ so that they too will become a part of the family.  We need to spread God’s love to everyone around.  This doesn’t mean we pick and choose whom we love.  We need to love everyone as Christ loves everyone.  John 13:34 (NIV) “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Not only are we to love one another we are to forgive each other as well.  Even though we can find it hard to forgive it is important that we do so.  God will forgive us all our sins and transgressions.  To take it a step further He not only forgives us He forgives others that seek redemption through Christ.  If God can forgive us and other people who are we to withhold forgiveness?  Luke 6:37 (NIV) “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” 

We all need to remember why Christ was born and lived here on earth.  He didn’t live and die just for one person.  He hung on that cross for all people.  Let us not withhold blessings, love, and forgiveness.  Let us spread the good news to all.  Let us spread God’s love to any and everyone we possibly can…

Merry Christmas