"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." (John 13:35 NIV)
While waiting with a friend for his doctor’s appointment at the Veterans Administration Hospital, an older gentleman slowly limped by using a walker. He paused, looked at my friend’s ball cap, and commented on its emblem.
“Marines huh? Sixth division World War II” Then in a louder voice, “Semper Fi.”
My friend, who had been leaning on his cane with his eyes closed, looked up at the older man. “Second Division, Vietnam. Semper Fi,” he said.
The first man moved along after those few words. A generation apart, yet, in that moment a genuine understanding of common experiences, beliefs and pride of country passed between them.
It brought to my mind thoughts of how Christians might be able to recognize one another. Some wear a cross for purposes of fashion rather than a statement of belief. So, that might not work. In ancient times when persecution of believers was the order of the day, the drawing of a simple fish could signal safety to a Christian. That might work sometimes.
The Bible tells us in John 13 that all men can recognize us as Christians by our love for one another. That seems the best method. Not only can we recognize another believer by their show of love, but it is a way to witness to others not yet in the fold.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are the author of love. Show us how to love one another so that our love will identify us as your children and witness to others not yet in the circle of Your love.
© 2009 Christy Struben
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1 comment:
It is funny how being part of a group makes it easier to feel a connection to others in that group. I love being part of this writer's group. I love the connection we all feel. Good piece. Dawn
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