Love

I officiated a memorial service for Lois, a believer who followed hard after Jesus. One word that described her entire life was “service.” Not long before she died, her daughter-in-law took several of Lois’ great-grandchildren to visit her in a care facility. They became worried when she was not in her room and began searching for her. Finally, they found Lois at the end of a hall in her wheelchair, reading to a person who could not see.

Today’s passage, the Shema (from the Hebrew word “hear”), is a confession of faith. It is recited every day by pious Jews and every Sabbath in the synagogues. We have been using these powerful verses as a parenting evaluation.

Today’s passage, the Shema (from the Hebrew word “hear”), is a confession of faith recited every day by pious Jews and every Sabbath in the synagogues.

Imago Deo. That’s Latin for “Image of God.” Our passage today reminds us that we were all created in God’s image. What an amazing truth!

The act of physical love is expressed by the Hebrew word dod. We’ll talk more about dod later. My purpose in this week’s devos is to show why living together before marriage is not a part of God’s design. I pray that you will use this information to make godly decisions and give godly counsel.

Building a strong family begins with strong marriages. Husbands, today’s passage is for you. I will warn you; this passage presents a tall task. And yet, this is the biblical model for every husband and father.

I have lived long enough to know that talk is cheap. From politicians to preachers, many words can flow from the mouth without ever resulting in meaningful action. My mom taught me early on that actions speak louder than words. So we are spending a few days considering the premier parenting passage in Scripture.

Our passage today is an answer to a question ... actually, two questions. So let’s check them out.

I can relate to the reasoning of Matthew 5:43. I love hanging out with neighbors. That’s a good time. Joking around. Laughing. Investing in the lives of people you like. I can handle that. And my enemy?