May 3-Let’s Especially Love Each Other

Good Thursday to you! I have been constantly amazed that as we have progressed through this book of Galatians, it has shown me something that has happened to me just that day or the day before. It’s as though God says “See, I told you!” My friend Alan calls those “God winks” when little things “happen” and you know they did’t “just” happen. He is big and He cares about the small details of our lives. I can tell you, the people of God truly cared and prayed for me to regain my health and my strength, as well as take care of me. And as I once again prepared to pack at another place, my friend Hollie stepped in to take over when I couldn’t finish. Yes, people of God caring for one another. 

In 6:7-10, Paul reminds us that if we invest in the works of the flesh, we'll receive the corruptibility that comes with that.  But if we invest in the Spirit, we'll reap life that will go on and on and on.

This is not just true for individuals.  Remember, Paul's letter was not to individuals - it was to the entire congregation at Galatia.  We need to keep an eye on our individual lives but also our communal life together.  We need to make sure our churches do not become places where people are made slaves to the Law, but rather are encouraged to live according to the Spirit, be guided by the Spirit, and cultivate the fruits of the Spirit.

“So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we get the chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.” ‭‭Galatians‬ ‭6:9-10‬ ‭MSG‬‬

Finally, Paul says to work for everyone's good, especially the household of faith.  I don't think Paul is saying that somehow believers are more deserving of our help that other people, nor do I think Paul is saying that believers should help themselves at the expense of non-believers.

Paul has to remind them (and us) "especially the family of faith" because, as you read Paul's letters to congregations, you can see most of them are doing a terrible job of taking care of one another.  In the same congregation, you'd find rich people sitting in special chairs and eating rich feasts right next to someone who could barely afford to stay alive and was not even invited to share in the meal at the Lord's Supper.

So, it's not so much a matter of believers being more worthy of help than everyone else; it's a matter of, "You guys can't even care for one another in your own congregations.  You need to get your act together, especially if you're going to share the gospel with those outside your church."

But Paul does clearly tell us to work for the good of everyone, and it reminds us of Father Abraham, whose descendants were meant to be a blessing to all the families of the world.  We still have that mission.  Christians are not supposed to be a pain in everyone else's neck!  We're supposed to be a blessing - a source of comfort and help and good news - to everyone.  And when we work to be a blessing to everyone, it shows that Jesus is our King and establishes the truth of the good news we bring.

Dear Jesus, please help us to continually care for one another and to love each other as we should. Help us to step in anytime we see someone who needs a hand or some extra care. We love you Lord and we praise you our Messiah and King. We ask for a mind to be aware of others and keep ourselves from selfishness. And even so, come quickly Lord Jesus! We look forward to the day when you break the eastern sky! We praise you this day. Amen and amen. 

Love you dear one,

Pam (and sweet Philip)