How Do We Know

In spite of European history, or our own tendencies, we are to be people of LOVE not hate.
Just the fact that the world sees our history as one of hate shows how far we have allowed our faith to be high-jacked but the despots of history!

When we ALLOW someone to wear a representation of our faith, without public comment, whom espouses violence or an immoral lifestyle ..... well there you have our problem.
And the world sees a Madonna with a sinful lifestyle, and she becomes our poster child.
Or some intolerant bigot shooting people, yet a member of a fringe "christian" group.
Or a mysterious bomber killing people whom he does not agree with.
Or a pastor whose whore-mongering lifestyle has been exposed.
Or me.
Or you ......

Yeah we miss the target of our faith.
More ot lessor extent.
We fail.

LOVE is to be our faith in action ...

1 John 2:7-11

It Is Old and It Is New
Love your neighbor as yourself.
Darn hard to do at times!
But, in Jesus, you can do this!
Jesus demonstrated love - at a whole new level.

It Is Love or Hate
John, sees the issue as being black or white.
You either love someone or you hate them.
Aaaaaack!
I have a great many I would state as being in a grey area.
Hate according to John.

You are either seeking the best for all in Jesus or you are hating.
We are to see people as family or not.
Love is not "liking".
Does not ignore the past.
Is not given to the deserving only.

It Is Light or It Is Darkness
are you known for what you hate?
Or for love?
Hate can not drive out hate.
Only love can.
Pride, selfishness,petty arguments and ingratitude block the light of God.

And, light is supposed to be what we reflect into the lives of those around us ...

(this why I love John - he continually challenges me)