Love Never StopsSample

Day 7: Loving Every Day, Part 2

Making the choice to love daily is something that the family of God is called to do. Each of us has a responsibility to make this choice individually, and yet there is strength in numbers when, collectively, our love never stops. “19 Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them (Mat 18:19-20).” Over the last six days, we’ve seen how God uses community to further His design for His creation. This begs the question, in what ways and for what purposes can God use you to gather and agree with your local body of believers? 

Safe Families for Children has a vision for creating a world where children are safe and families transformed through radically compassionate communities. While each of us can and should act individually, we can also invite one or two others to come along. Each person can get involved at the level they feel comfortable with, and you can encourage a like-minded gathering in your church. “For the body does not consist of one member but of many (1 Cor 12:14).” In Safe Families, we call this a circle of support.

"18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body (1 Cor 12:18-20)."

God calls us to work as a family of faith in the family business. He’s proud of us when we collectively display His love with our eyes stayed on Jesus. That was the testimony of the New Testament church at Thessalonica. Collectively, they were determined that their love never stops. “2 We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, 3 remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ (1 The 1:2-3).”

The Christians in Thessalonica were so committed to this life that their reputation spread, “7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8 For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything (1 The 1:7-8).” This is the opportunity we have in our churches to be known for living in radically compassionate communities where our love never stops.

Reflection/Discussion Questions:

Do you have your own “circle of support?" Who are the people who you depend on and do life with each week?

How does serving in community help you grow?

Share this devotional with your pastor, family, and friends. Consider how your church and your own circle can be a part of the Safe Families movement together!

Would you like information on how your church can love and care for families? Visit us at safe-families.org/safefamiliessunday.