LOVE MONTH?
A radio commentator
recently called February the “Love Month” probably because of Valentine’s
Day. Also in the past few weeks a large
billboard has been erected just west of Hwy. 141 on I-44 near Valley Park. The
billboard is part of a project started by John Pogachar, a life and health
coach from Spokane, Washington. Such
billboards have been erected at various cities throughout the nation. Pogachar
sees this as “an effort to support areas that stand in need of love and healing.”
It is supported by donations.
As Christians we can
applaud Pogachar’s efforts but at the same time realize the message originated
with God, the Author of love. Actually,
the Ten Commandments are centered on love as we well know. Jesus emphasized this command the night
before He was about to die by telling His disciples “As I have loved you, so
you must love one another. By this all
men will know you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Unfortunately, not
all people understand the great love Jesus had for man, that His love is an undeserved love we know as “grace.” We, as His followers, are to extend that
grace to others. Even when we do not
agree with someone or their actions, we are to love them. We can show love by helping them to see their
sin if need be, always remembering how we, too, must stand in grace because of
our sins. We can strive by the Holy
Spirit’s power to be good examples of
Christ’s love and
pray they will allow Him to work in their hearts also.
Lent this year begins March 6, Ash Wednesday.
The season of Lent offers an excellent opportunity for us to remember again
Jesus’ great love for us in His suffering and death. Ash Wednesday and the
following Sundays will feature special orders of service emphasizing His love
and strengthening our faith. These
services offer you opportunities to invite others to hear the message of
salvation culminating in the Resurrection (Easter), assuring us of eternal life
with Him in heaven.
May you look forward
to making a special effort to join with fellow members in worship and praise
during this season.
Pastor James Rhiver
