John 13:34-35
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
In police work, one of the first things an officer will do when pulling over a speeder is to check for the identification of the driver. If things do not seem to be quite right, the identification of the passengers will also be checked. In this manner it is often possible to capture individuals with outstanding arrest warrants.
At most sporting events you will see large numbers on the players’ jerseys. On a team where everyone is dressed alike, this is how individual players are identified, as well as the positions they are playing.
Christians do not carry cards that identify themselves as born-again believers. They do not have numbers on their clothing to indicate that they are playing some vital role as a member of the “Jesus team.”
Jesus gave all true believers a command—not a suggestion, but a command. We are to love each other. Our manifestation of love for our brothers and sisters in Christ must be just as identifiable as carrying an ID card. Can you be identified as a loving member of the body of Christ?
Blessings, Dear Hearts, draw near to God today, trust Him completely, and be a blessing!
—Pastor Cecil