Living A Love Centered Life

Ephesians 5:21-33

Evelyn was in tears today. It was not the first time she has cried. It will not be the last time she cries. It happened to be one of the times she cries for Michael, who died last week. While planning the time of remembrance, we faced the reality of love and certainty of lost.

In the midst of tears she spoke to me of her husband. "Michael", she said, "was a nice man, husband, and father. You would have enjoyed meeting him." Michael bore the character of a child of God. When the time comes to deliver his eulogy of Wednesday, the words will reflect knowledge of him. I met him today through a loving wife. A middle age woman, who was living a love centered life with Michael.

Michael loved Evelyn unconditionally. He would give unto her his whole heart. His illness brought on the most challenging times of their love. Even in sickness he dedicated himself to working for the benefit of the children and his wife, until he could move from the bed. Unto death did part, he was solid as a rock. A testimony to living a love centered life.

What happens when we merge a love centered life with a Christ centered life? Pray about it. Really. I would like to know your thoughts on the matter. The only difference may be in church attendance and membership. You think? You see, we can believe in Christ, yet not center our lives in the Lord. Centering in Christ asks for more than love of God and neighbor. A Christ centered life is lived in the body of Christ - the Church. I am not talking about any particular church, even though all persons are welcome to join Metropolitan Community UMC. I am speaking beyond a building and encouraging worship and fellowship among believers. Faith sharing in praise to the glory of God is what this word is about.

When we get right now to it, the essence of love is in remembrance on the daily. Every day remembering love that flows from God to us, and us to God that is to nurture the love we share between each other.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us, and teach us to love. Teach us to really love into eternity. Amen.