We never know what hell someone goes through to get to church. We do not know what sacrifices people make to serve. We don’t always know what motivates the actions of a person. We do not know what need a person carries quietly as they search for a resolution. Why do people continue to be hurt by judgmental Christians who create barriers to experience the love of Christ? Believe it or not, people still hold the expectation that church is the one place they can get a reprieve from the stress of life.

 Is it too much to ask that we are gentle and kind towards one another? Is it too much to ask to say thank you? Is it too much effort or energy to show your appreciation for people without the flamboyance of a large audience? We have a tendency to make loving people harder than it has to be. Sometimes it is necessary to take the edge off by allowing your character to lead your methodology instead of giving power to your ego.

 Do the right thing because it is the right thing to do in spite of yourself. The message of love will shine brighter than your ego and that is the point. We have arrived at a point where our ego justifies mean spirited actions and blocks the warning signs indicating trouble ahead.

Love is a noun, verb and most importantly, a choice. How you express it matters. How you do not express it matters. You matter, and so does the person on the receiving end of your actions.

You can build people up with words and actions. You can tear people down with words and actions. You can choose to move with the heart of Christ in all you do, or you can choose to move with an ungodly spirit.

 Choose your path, remember both roads come with blessings and consequences.  Love is a calling from the Most High God. Your answer to the call determines the end result. Follow Christ and love on purpose or smother the light and do your own thing. What say you?