God Speaking

“A new command I give you. Love one another.  As I have loved you., so you must love one another”

(John 13: 34)

When we think of the word, generous, we often associate it with money, but it can also be used to describe actions as well as the gift of money. The world is reeling from the effects of this ugly virus stealing from us our loved ones, denying us our normal routine, taking away jobs and robbing us of the social contact we all need so much with friends and family. Fear and panic sometimes bring out the worst in humanity, such as the me first attitude that results in hoarding food and essential items, but it can also bring out the love that Jesus entreated his disciples and of course all believers who have followed him, to practice.

Love generously!

Social distancing has made it difficult to see our loved ones and all our also loved friends, but because we can still use our phones and the internet to keep in touch, Jesus encourages us to love our neighbours as well as close friends. Many seniors are trapped in their homes, feeling lonely and deserted, I read a beautiful verse in Proverbs that helps us follow Jesus’ words.

“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” (Proverbs 16: 24)

Just picking up the phone and talking gracious words of encouragement can do wonders for a lonely person and an easy way to ease the burden of isolation. They don’t have to be pompous with empty sounding words, but if we pray before phoning the Lord will season our words with his love and compassion. Those who know me will not be surprised that I try to add a little bit of humour as well. The main thing is to let the person know the call has been prompted by love and as the Lord says, cheerfully.

“Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9: 7)

Small acts can also allow a lonely neighbour to find that they are not forgotten. Bulbs are springing up in gardens, even a small bunch of flowers left outside the door can gladden a sad heart. One of my old friends told me she looked in her mail box the other day and found lovely drawings from two little girls who live in her street with also loving words just saying “ miss you”.  This is also a good way to teach small children to love neighbours, also a good way to keep those little ones busy.

Jesus is and always will be the greatest giver of all time and as we have just celebrated Easter, that example is foremost in our minds. When we realise the most amazing gift given to us, we are propelled to spread that love to others in any way we can.

“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift.” (2 Corinthians 9: 15)