Just Love People

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34 Yesterday, I shared how Jesus allowed His fear of the cross and its sufferings to be replaced by steadfast love—a love for you and me so powerful it cast out even the fear of the cross. The sacrifice Jesus made, being resurrected on our behalf, opened a door for us to simply love others. If you want to reduce fear in your life, choose to love life and love people. Let yourself fall in love with people. Truly care for others. Part of loving well means letting go of judgment and releasing blame. Blame is easy to pick up, but it holds us back by keeping us stuck in the past and preventing us from moving forward and growing. Avoid blaming systems, the government, and your parents.

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” – John 15:12 Today, I refer back to our previous discussion of propriety two days ago. Propriety is conformity to conventional norms and standards accepted in society. Propriety can destroy God’s purpose and creativity in us, as well as our ability to create and curate all that He has done and all that He is doing. How many stories do we know of people who were not able to experience the “love thy neighbor” aspect of their church growing up due to propriety? The propriety of fathers prevented many daughters from hearing their fathers say, “I love you.” During times of addiction or depression, how many people avoided seeking help due to propriety? Because of propriety, many people have not reached out to God in a time of need!    Propriety is one of Jesus’ favorite targets! In Jesus’