VIRB

Jesus came to earth with one goal in mind. To love. Everything He did was out of love. He hung out with prostitutes and tax collectors. Why? Because He loved them, regardless of who they are or if they had a different belief or lifestyle than He did. He gave all He had to everyone else, He even sacrificed His own life.

Stop and think for one minute. Think about Jesus. No, not the image we all grew up to know. Not the cartoon Jesus. Not the typical "American" Jesus. He was a man. He breathed air, ate, laughed, cried, and bled. He was a simple man. I like to picture Him just sitting around talking to people. He probably had very friendly eyes and a welcoming voice. He didn't set out get votes, raise money, or strive for popularity. He came here to love people the way God would love us. He taught us truths about how we should live. Jesus wants us to love in everything that we do. Without love, it is difficult to accomplish anything. Without love, our actions are in vain. I believe it is time for believers to begin to act in love. Jesus told us "the greatest command is to love". He led a simple life dedicated to serving others. He fed people, took care of the sick, healed the broken and loved those who mourned.

I believe God sent Jesus to earth for a reason. He came to earth to bridge the gap between humanity and God that was broken by Adam and Eve. Christ is our connection to God.

Salvation is not the answer to problems. There is no 5-Step program to get into heaven. Salvation is the beginning of a relationship with God. It is the starting point to recognize the existence of God and to show Him love. Not everyone's relationship with God is the same. That is impossible. Some people are more quiet and introverted and personal. Others are evangelical and vocal. Who are we to judge another's walk with God? Sometimes I think we get caught up in a lot of drama related to Christianity. I think we waste time arguing over who's doctrine or theology is right. I want to be focused. I want to love. If we call ourselves believers, yet fail to act in love...of all people...if Christians won't love others then who will.

Without love, we have failed. Without love, we cannot further our relationship with God. We cannot truly sacrifice or help others in need. Without love everything seems to fall apart. From feeding the hungry, helping the poor, taking care of the sick, and praying for those who mourn; that is what God called us to do. I don't really think God cares what politician we vote for, how big our church is, how awesome our worship service is, or how expensive our Sunday suit (dress) is that we bought. "Where to or three are gathered" God will show himself.

In a society filled with materialism, money, and the pursuit of success, I think we sometimes get lost in the mindset of what really matters. In the end we are all flesh and bone. The things of this world are not worth fighting for.

I am sometimes reserved about my faith, meaning I don't consider myself over evangelical or running church aisles (unless the spirit really tells me to) but I am passionate about what I think is true. Truth seems to get lost and buried in many things today. I find truth in the Bible. Society today seems to create so much noise. From the internet, billboards, music, television, and politics - it can be difficult to sort out truth from lies. The more I read my Bible, the more I realize what is true. The noise seems to dissipate and truth becomes evident.

Regardless, a relationship is the key. The daily pursuit to know God more and more is what matters. I think God just wants us to love him. I think that is why He created us in the first place. Prayer and worship is how we show love to God. That love will transform us and begin to affect our actions and daily living.

Love is the answer.