Love that takes the initiative has the power to be transformative. It has the power to change the world.

In my reading and understanding of Jesus, I have drawn two conclusions. The first, Love is the most important virtue, and that it was so important to Jesus that it compelled him to give up his life out of great love for us. The second is this, we too are called to love with the same passion. We can do this through simple acts and more difficult acts; forgiveness, humility, servanthood, generosity, and peacemaking. 

This weeks sermon (you can read here or watch a video here) is based on Paul's message to the churches in Rome. He gives a long list of things we can do (ROMANS 12:9-21). Most seem doable...but we must be willing to do it. Like the point I drive home in the sermon: Love is an action, not an emotion. We have to put our love to work in order for it to work!  After all, "love that takes the initiative has the power to be transformative.  Not only is it a game changer but a world changer too!

Paul's "how to" list of things we ought to do:

• Let love be genuine
• Hate what is evil
• Hold on to what is good
• Love one another with mutual affection
• Outdo one another in showing honor
• Do not lag in zeal
• Be ardent in spirit
• Serve the Lord
• Rejoice in hope
• Be patient in suffering
• Persevere in prayer
• Contribute to the needs of the saints
• Extend hospitality to strangers
• Bless those who persecute 
• Rejoice with those who rejoice
• Weep with those who weep
• Live in harmony with one another
• Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly
• Do not claim to be wiser than you are
• Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all.
• Live peaceably with all.
• Never avenge yourselves, leave the wrath to God
• If your enemies are hungry, feed them
• If they are thirsty, give them something to drink  
• Do not be overcome by evil,
  
• Overcome evil with good.
  

​  ROMANS 12:9-21