Do You Love the Church, Too?

February is commonly tagged "the month of love" (most likely because of Valentine's Day on the 14th ). I remembered the Apostle Paul's instructions to men in the Ephesian church: "Husbands, love your wives... (5:25a).That in itself presents a formidable challenge to us husbands, doesn't it? But the Apostle didn't stop there; he added, "...just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her,..." (5:25b).

So, St. Paul set the standard very high for husbands to love their wives: "...just as Christ loved the church...." That phrase captured my attention by raising a question in my mind and heart: "Do you love the church, too?"

Remember, Jesus Christ "loved the church" and demonstrated that love sacrificially. The Apostles loved the church, evidenced by their service and sacrifice. Through the centuries, others - including some real people that you and I know - have loved the church, "the body of Christ," demonstrated unmistakably in their lives and in their faithful service.

But the question is personal, very personal to me: "Derris, do you love the church, too?" Down deep in my innermost being I want to answer "Yes! Yes, I love the church, too!" No one can ever love the church like Jesus did (and does!) but we all who are part of His church can, and should, love what Jesus loved and loves! When we do the evidence in our lives will be obvious.

By the way, "Do you love the church, too?"

Grace and Peace to all!