Loving Challenge, Take 2

      Loving Challenge, Take 2

by Sharon Myers

It seems like a very long time ago that Pastor Brian challenged us to love each other in four specific ways. At first I checked things off monthly, but then as I sheltered in place, I became less intentional. The challenges recently popped into my mind again. Just in case you also need to refocus, here they are in my words:

1. Do something extravagant for someone at ECOB. John 13:34 says, “As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” Think about how extravagantly Jesus loves us. Share this love with others. Drop off a meal, send a gift card, mow a yard, sit in your yard and watch the kids next door play so that their parents can have a much-needed break. Extravagant doesn’t have to mean expensive.
2. Pray with/for others and let them know you are praying for them. Ephesians 6:18 says, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” Do you know someone who is going through a hard time? Call them and pray with them over the phone or send them the prayer you are praying for them via text or email. Are you missing a friend? How awesome would it be for them to know you are remembering them in prayer?
3. Take time to be with others outside your demographic. In Matthew 25:35, Jesus says, “I was a stranger and you invited me in.” Even though we all belong to the ECOB family, there are members of the family we don’t know. You may not be able to meet with them right now, but you can call, text or send a card or note.
4. Serve. Deuteronomy 10:12 reminds us, “And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul.” Pray now about what God is calling you to do.