Clothed in…Love

by Cindy Allen

              A few Sundays back I was supposed to work in the toddler nursery, so I wore my church t-shirt.  After church I went to the grocery store.  The entire time I was in there I kept thinking about the fact I was seeing many people who had not been to church that morning, and I was representing my church.

              I won’t say I was over the top friendly and polite, and maybe I was the way I always act in the store, but I know the thought of representing Jesus was on my radar.  Maybe that isn’t something I should admit, but Jesus is not often on my mind in Super 1. 

              I made sure to grab the buggy someone had left in the parking lot.  I smiled and nodded as I pass other shoppers, even the ones who had been at church with me just a few minutes earlier.  I think I had more of a spring in my step than I usually do and didn’t even get aggravated when I had to backtrack a couple of times.

              Later that afternoon the convicting thought came.  Did I really need to be wearing a church t-shirt to be so aware of representing Jesus?   I am generally a pleasant person, at least I think so.  I don’t run people over with my cart, although I have been known to pull out in front of them.  I don’t throw a fit if they are out of the chips that are on sale.  But am I always putting my best foot forward? 

              In John 13:35, Jesus says, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”  HMM, Jesus doesn’t even mention a church t-shirt; not even one of those cute scripture shirts.  They will know I am a follower of Him if I have love.  That is the defining characteristic.

              Love that shapes my actions, words, and thoughts.  Love that permeates everything I do, even shopping at the grocery store.  And if I am not wearing my t-shirt that love should still be ever so apparent. 

              I think I might get a sticky note for my dash.  Just a reminder as I exit the car each time, to show love to my fellow shoppers, bill payers, patrons, and even church members.  And if someone ask me about that love, may I be quick to tell them about the true source of all love.  And if I have a cute shirt to tell them, I’m gonna wear it!

Prayer:  Dear Lord, forgive me when I go through the daily acts of life in a rush, focused on me.  Give me your eyes for the people around me.  Help me to take deep breath of air and Holy Spirit as I exit the car, so I can not only do my chore but do it in love.  In Jesus’ name, Amen

Reading: Luke 10:25-27; Acts 3:1-10

Response:  Let’s take Peter and John’s response to the world around us.  “Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I thee.”