Jesus said that one of the characteristics which would distinguish the Christian community was the fact that they would be known by their love for one another. Was that characterization to be limited to the first century…or was it to be for all centuries…including ours?
As I watch the newspapers and communications pieces used in the Christian community these days I am grieved that too often this standard seems to have been jettisoned. Today leaders are criticized left and right publicly, often sans the effort of following Matthew 18 when dealing with problems. Many blogs seem much faster and focused on finding, and spreading, what they think is wrong more than what they think is right. And often, in rather ruthless fashion. I’m sure that many outside the Christian community sometimes wonder, “Why would I want to be a part of that, when I see that kind of reaction in my world on a regular basis?! What is so different?” And I think they would have a point.
A man said to me not too long ago, “In my opinion the Christian community has moved from shooting its wounded, to wounding its walking!” I was grieved to hear such a commentary…yet I fear he is right. I pray a movement of God stirs in the Christian community in the near future and compels a return to all of us being known for our love more than our criticism, and following Matthew 18 when, indeed, a difference or problem arises. That’s sure how I, for one, want to be known…not the other way around.