Love and Respect

 In our K-5 ministry, the children are learning about respect – showing others they are important by what you say and do (Luke 6:31). The little ones (Walkers – Pre-K) are learning how Jesus loves them and wants to be their friend forever (Ephesians 3:18). These two fundamental truths go together, Jesus' love for us is not just words we read in Scripture; it is a deep love with action behind it (John 3:16; Romans 5:8).

In Matthew's gospel (also found in Luke), there is a short love story that shows the kind of respect and love Christ-followers should display. It's the story of the Centurion's faith (Matthew 8:5-13). Stay with me here. It begins with the Centurion seeking Jesus and asking for healing for his servant (vv.5-8). This man was not only showing love for another, but also tremendous respect for Jesus. Without knowing it, this gentile (non-Jew) lived out Zechariah's words by showing kindness and mercy to one another and not oppressing those less fortunate (Zechariah 7:9-10). This man showed compassion and understanding by going to the One, the ultimate authority. In turn, Jesus displays a love for this man's tremendous faith by healing his servant (v.13). The Centurion not only had confidence in Jesus' words – but also trusted in the power of the person speaking these words (vv. 8-9). My friends continue to submit to our King, and as His children – "let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth (1 John 3:18, ESV).

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