Love One Another
by Pastor Gene Wickman

[Jesus said,] “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.  Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.  By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”  John 13:34-35

Our purpose statement is quite clear that at Ascension we come together as God’s family to CARE FOR OTHERS!  We have approached this ministry with a focus on others, beyond our congregation, which includes social ministry and benevolence as well as a focus within our congregation.  This ministry includes fellowship, mutual ministry and property.  The driving force for all care is love.  This was most perfectly modeled by our Lord Jesus Christ.  He is the model for all ministries that happens in the Church.

Jesus calls us to be followers.  This means denying ourselves, taking up our crosses and daily following him.  This is where the rubber hits the road.  Often I would rather that life be devoid of hardship and sacrifice – that faith be not be a daily cross.  But we are called to love one another and to do it with joy. 

When I was growing up there was a great emphasis on giving up something for Lent – getting rid of some habit which has no spiritual benefit for ones life.  This was to be seen as making a sacrifice or bearing a cross during the season of Lent.  I have come to believe that, in Lent, it is more important to give something to God, to others and that something is love!  Each day let us plan to show caring love for someone during the season of Lent.

Lord, help us to remember the gift of Your Son who was given for us.  Help us to follow His example, help us to love one another – to give of ourselves to others who may not have had the opportunity to know Your bounteous love as we do.  Fill us with the joy that comes from living in love and care.  In Jesus’ name, AMEN.