Love

If you take the time to read Matthew 25:31-46, you will see Jesus explaining the story of separating His sheep from goats, giving His sheep their inheritance, and the kingdom that had been prepared for them. The sheep are those that gave food, drink, clothing, and shelter to whom Jesus calls the least of these or strangers. He went on to tell the goats to depart from Him, as they gave nothing to others. When we show the love of God to strangers, we become more and more like Him. Loving strangers should be our heart’s desire. As we see a world that needs our help, we should want to help and spread the love of God. Sometimes that looks like just smiling at someone you don’t know or being polite by saying hello, excuse me, and thank you. Other times, it will look like meeting a need, such as giving money, food, clothing, or if safety is not a concern, shelter. People often have an issue with this because they believe the person won’t do what they say with what you give them, but that is not your concern as God knew your heart when you gave, so therefore, you will still be recognized and blessed for your obedience. I truly believe it is better to give than receive. When we give, it gives people hope, but not only that, our giving could impact a generation, and we never know it. I give because I love God, and by loving God, I love His people. So, how do you love strangers? You give, whether it is monetary, material, food, prayers, or a kind word.

Keep in mind before we can love strangers, parents, teachers, family, friends, and especially a significant other, we must first experience and come to know God’s love. Because it is through His love that we will be able to love others. Without God’s love, you cannot love, because according to 1 John 4:8, God is love. Therefore, this helps break the idea that love is a feeling or an emotion. Love provokes feelings and emotions, but love is a choice and a decision, and that decision starts with accepting Christ as your Lord and Savior and allowing His love to take over. Then and only then will we begin to truly love not only ourselves but also others.