Inseparable Love

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Everyone who has read the gospels has read these verses. Few would disagree with the basic concept, and all would likely claim to hold to the command itself; but are we really? To even call oneself Christian would require adhering to the first: love the Lord your God with all your heart. But loving our neighbors  can be a struggle, right?

I would argue that we cannot do one without the other. These two cannot be separated, no matter your theology, creed, or doctrine. Who is the Lord your God? He is the Creator of all things which have been created, with particular pride, the creator of man. Who is your neighbor? Well, look to the story of the Samaritan for Jesus's full answer, but simply defined: anyone you interact with. But more than fellow man, your neighbor is the image bearer of God Almighty.

"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him;  male and female he created them. "
Genesis 1:27 ESV


What does that really say? We are each endowed with the image of God from the womb. So if we do not love the God-created image of God, are we not breaking the first command as well? If we do not love ourselves, are we not denying God the glory of His great works? I've long been on the side that self-love is the default.  With breath in our lungs, we love ourselves. If you can feed yourself, can you not spare a scrap for the needy? If you breathe your every breath, is not right to fight for the next breath of he who stands beside you? If you have found the love of Christ Jesus in your heart, is it not right to lavish it on those found lost?


In times such as these, when the internet arguably has made potentially the whole world neighbors, it is more important than ever to really know and show the love of God. Whether it's face to face, through personal or professional blogs, in the gritty and filth ridden comment sections of your pick of websites, we are called to love first.

To anyone reading this, I love you. Even if I don't know you, I love you. Know that God loves you, and did the unthinkable to save you from yourself. Thank God today and everyday for the innumerable opportunities given to spread His love as the glorified image bearer you are called to be.

God Bless,
N.I.T.V

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