Listen

Love should be shown without pretending. Hate evil, and hold on to what is good. Love each other like the members of your family. Be the best at showing honor to each other. Don’t hesitate to be enthusiastic—be on fire in the Spirit as you serve the Lord! Be happy in your hope, stand your ground when you’re in trouble, and devote yourselves to prayer.

Romans 12:9-12

Think

As you travel through your life, you will meet people along the way that just seem to know how to love others really well. They pay attention, are really present when you are with them, and they know how to make others feel special. They are there to celebrate the good things and grieve the losses. You can count on them equally well when things are good and hopeful and when you are in trouble. And when you need some extra prayers – they are the ones you will call on.

Shining bright in the world is also about loving and living well. We can all be this kind of person. These verses in Romans give us a great list of how to love in a genuine way. You will never run out of opportunities to show love or people to care for – so do it well. And in doing so, the gifts you receive may be even greater than those you give.

Amy Derrick

Pray

God, I want to be a person who loves well.

Help me show up for others, to be hopeful and enthusiastic.

To stand my ground when trouble comes and to find real joy in serving others in your name.

Help me to not just pretend to love – but to let your love flow through me in a way that is genuine.

And remind me to pray, God – because I can’t do this without you.

Amen.

Go

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!

Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!