Beyond Expectations: Loving the Unlovable
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | December 30 2024 | Luke 6:27-35
KEY VERSE:
“If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them.” Luke 6:32 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
You are probably preparing for the new year and most likely writing down resolutions into it. Consider this: how about adding something impossible with our human efforts but very possible with God: Loving the Unlovable. Luke 6:32 challenges us to go beyond the ordinary: "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them." Jesus calls us to a higher standard of love that extends even to those who are difficult to love. Can we embrace the challenge of loving the unlovable, reflecting the boundless love of Christ in our actions and attitudes?
Loving the unlovable requires us to look past the surface and see others through the eyes of Christ. It means showing kindness to those who may have hurt us, extending grace to those who seem undeserving and offering forgiveness to those who have wronged us. This kind of love is not based on merit but on the unconditional love that God has shown us. By loving those who are hard to love, we demonstrate the transformative power of God's love in our lives and become instruments of His peace and reconciliation.
We will undoubtedly face challenges as we strive to love beyond expectations in the coming year. There will be moments when retreating into comfort and familiarity feels easier. But in these moments, we must remember Jesus' example and His call to love without limits. By stepping out of our comfort zones and loving the unlovable, we open ourselves to profound spiritual growth and deeper connections with others.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Make your new year defined by your commitment to love as Christ loves, going beyond expectations and making a lasting impact on the world around you. GO the extra mile.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, your love compels me to love unconditionally. Please help me consistently love others as I resolve into the new year. May I show all around me your unconditional love for my actions. For your name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: CREDIT
The Greek word for "credit" in Luke 6:32 is "χάρι)ς" (charis). In this context, it doesn't refer to financial credit but rather to "grace", "favour" or recognition. It goes beyond mere acknowledgement, pointing to something that carries divine approval or reward. Jesus uses this word to emphasise that the kind of love He calls for earns heavenly commendation, not just human applause.
Jesus contrasts human reciprocity with divine generosity. Loving those who love us is expected and requires little effort. However, loving those who challenge us reflects the divine nature of grace - a love that gives without demanding in return. Such love testifies to the transformative power of God’s presence in our lives.
Reflection: Where can you show such unselfish love today? Let Charis guide your actions as you extend God’s grace to the unlovable.
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