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Romans 12:9-10 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
The word ‘genuine’ in Romans 12:9 means to be of such purity and consistency that its value is priceless. It is a call to show love in active ways that are sincere, honest, selfless, and kind. They are expressions of love that show in both words and actions. They are experienced both emotionally and physically. One of our granddaughters at one of our family gatherings was standing next to me. She was quiet, looking a little coy, and of course so very cute. She started to move and wiggle herself into my arms. She then said, “Papa can you hold me?” Naturally, I scooped her up in my arms and held her tight. She kept the squeeze going for a bit longer than usual. Then I asked, “What’s going on Little Chicken? (one of my nick names for her).” She was quiet for a bit and spent a little time stroking my beard. I squeezed again and said, “I love you!” She replied in a kind of matter-of-fact way, “I know…I just wanted to feel it!” She released her grip and said with a big smile, “I love you too, Papa!” as she went off to play with her cousins. I thought, so true, sometimes I just want to feel the love. Love can’t be just a feeling we feel or thought we think, we should let love be active.
The bible encourages us to actively love. This active love is seen in empathy.
Romans 12:15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
1 Peter 3:8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.
Galatians 6:2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
Active love is seen in humble harmony.
Romans 12:16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
Colossians 3:12 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.
Active love seeks peace.
Romans 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Psalms 34:14 Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
Active love serves God and others.
1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
1 Samuel 12:24 Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things he has done for you.
Yes, our words and thoughts matter, but so do our actions. Let love be active and connect with others. Care and feel with others. Seek ways to help and bless others. Active love is selfless, generous, and humble. One little act of caring, selfless, harmony and peace seeking love can have a huge impact. How could you show some active love today?
Attending in-person church can help! Yes, online is good too, but being in person is where connection can happen. If you do not already have a church to attend, we would like to invite you to view or visit Neighborhood Church. We are a welcoming church and would love for you to connect with us! Our website has all the information you need for times and locations of all our Sunday gatherings. You can also find us online at neighborhoodchurch.com. As well, if you would like to view any of our past worship gatherings or videos, visit our YouTube channel, or just search Neighborhood Church Cypress or Neighborhood Church Los Alamitos on their YouTube site.
Seeking to let love be active along with you,
Mike McKay
