November 22, 2010
1 John 2
Cammie Wilson
One of my parents’ most admirable qualities was their love for everyone around them. It didn’t matter how easy or difficult a person was…they extended the love of Jesus and were able to “love the unlovely.” Going back to the 70’s, I have many childhood memories of the homeless, drug-addicted, rejected, shamed, brokenhearted and lonely spending hours, days and sometimes weeks at our home, as my parents invested, listened, cared, and ministered to them. These individuals knew that no matter how bad they had blown it, there was always a place for them at the Newton house.
Although it seemed effortless, I know that there must have been many times when my parents put their own desires aside and chose the path that was more difficult - to love others more than themselves. Their patience, as well as their ongoing acceptance, commitment, and at times correction, were true reflections of Jesus. As I’ve grown (both in years and experience), I’ve come to realize that this was a true gift that didn’t sit on a shelf, but was placed into action. My parents were living out their calling – to love others as Jesus did.
I John 2 speaks consistently about being careful with the objects of our affection, remaining in Christ and being Christ to others. Verse 5 tells us, “But if anyone obeys His word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in Him: Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did.” While this sounds pretty simple, it’s extremely challenging.
If I obey His Word, His love will be made complete in me; and if I claim to be a Christ-follower, I have to walk it out just like the One I follow. When selfishness arises in me and tells me “Don’t bother,” “What does it really matter?” or “They’re just too difficult,” I must make a decision. Am I going to put my claims of being a Christ-follower into action and walk as He did, or walk it out based on what’s convenient or easy for me?
I know what I want to do – to abide in Him and be like Him. I pray that we are all able to walk as Jesus did.
Cammie serves as Grace Covenant’s women’s ministries director. Her perfect meal would include “a grilled steak, baked potato, grilled squash, bruschetta, yeast rolls and chocolate cake.”
