March 24, 2025

March 24   1 Peter 4

Peter gives a brief list of expectations for believers as we await the return of Jesus Christ. Alert and sober-minded means keep focused on what is important (cut distractions) and be in prayer about everything.  We are called to love one another, which goes beyond statements of "I am loving" or "we are a loving church" to a demonstration of love.  Whether we are loving or not is not based on what we say about ourselves, but rather what the experience of those who we claim to love is in our relationship with them.  We should not have to call ourselves loving.  Others should give that statement regarding us as individuals and as a church.

It goes on to talk about being hospitable, using our gifts to serve others, speak with words that line up with God's Word.  These are all reflections of love.  The reality of this world is that many people feel lonely and unloved.  We can make a huge difference in this world if we intentionally show love towards others, encourage them in the Word, help them in ways that we are able, and welcome them into our homes and our dinner tables.  Sometimes for a person the first step in knowing that Jesus loves them is in experiencing the love of one of His followers.