TRANSFORMATIONAL LOVE

TRANSFORMATIONAL LOVE

One of the more memorable sermons of the late civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is entitled “Loving Your Enemies.”  He had been imprisoned for protests – daring to suggest that African-Americans should have the same civil rights as others.  During his lifetime, he received countless death threats, he was physically stabbed, he was accused of being a communist, his family home was bombed and he was jailed over 20 times.

Yet in this historic sermon, Dr. King contended that “hate multiplies hate…in a descending spiral of violence” and is therefore “just as injurious to the person who hates” as it is to the victim of hate.  Moreover, he concluded that “love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend” for love has both “creative” and “redemptive” powers.

So who will you touch today with love?

Belinda and I have viewed the inspirational film, “War Room,” many times.  Both of us find it impossible to watch without being reduced to tears.  Along with its poignant prayer narrative, its message speaks volumes on forgiveness, acceptance and unconditional love.  To be transparent, there are times I have fallen short in those areas.  But here’s a hopeful truth: Long ago, my wife and I dedicated our own “war room.”  It is our family sanctuary, a spiritual space for prayer, worship and Word study. 

In connection with this, we commenced what we call a “complaint fast.”  God being our help, instead of carping or complaining about enemies, frenemies, or anyone, we resolve to lovingly lift others to the Lord on the altar of steadfast and fervent prayer.  While doing so, we will prayerfully and carefully consider ourselves, i.e. our own faults and imperfections, seeking God's grace for our personal growth edges.

As Dr. King so eloquently stated, our capacity to love is transformative and life-changing.  So we should never underestimate its power, both to transform ourselves and to touch others.

Who will you purposefully impact with a proactive and persistent love?

Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!