Jesus was a person that was both understanding as well as demanding. To the people who knew less of what loving God, neighbor, self and enemy he was understanding. To those who knew more of what love meant he was demanding.
He constantly proclaimed the forgiving love of God. Yet that forgiving love that came freely had a demand that those who love God strive to live out that love and forgiveness. I have a hunch that Jesus had this in mind when he said,
‘Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.’ (Mark 11:25). This thought also occurs in the LORD'S prayer that is constantly prayed in the church, for in it are the words: "forgive our trespasses as we forgive those who have trespassed against us".
Yes Jesus loves us just because he loves us. Yet his love has a demand that we strive to love as well.
No comments:
Post a Comment