I think I’m a pretty loving person.

Usually.

As long as I’m well-rested, un-rushed, and not feeling overwhelmed by my life!

But as soon as I’m tired, rushed, and overwhelmed, I’m a lot less loving!

But even in those moments we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ to one another. Even when we’re not at our best. And even when we don’t FEEL like it.

Psychiatrist M Scott Peck says that “Real love often occurs in a context in which the feeling of love is lacking.” That’s helpful. It’s easy to honour and serve others when you FEEL like it. It’s discipleship to honour and serve others when you don’t.

1 John 4:11 says, “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” In other words, the love we have for one another isn’t based on our fluctuating impulses. It’s based on the fact that our good and steadfast Lord loved us first.

We love because we’re loved.

Today, an opportunity will probably present itself to honour and serve someone. You may not feel like it. You can let it pass. But I think you should seize it. Those opportunities might just be the bread crumbs God leaves for you on the abundant path of Jesus to draw you forward.

So seize the opportunity. Be the hands and feet of Christ. Not because you always feel like it, but because you’ve been loved first.

By Matthew Ruttan
-“Up!” is published 5 days a week and returns on April 17th.