We’ve probably all heard that phrase before, but what does it really mean, especially for those of us following Christ? The theme for this year’s VBS is LIVE IT OUT, and it’s more than just an expression. It’s a call to action. To live like Jesus. Allow me to let the writers of our VBS curriculum share their hearts:
In John 13:34-35, we see Jesus give a command to His disciples. While spending what would be their last moments together, He left His followers with one thing:
I give you a new command. Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
Jesus SHOWED His disciples how to love and, in turn, the way we love and treat one another speaks volumes about who we follow.
In a world where people are struggling, hurting, and seem more divided than ever, we have the opportunity to show them the incredible love of Christ as we demonstrate qualities like kindness, forgiveness, compassion, servant-heartedness… as we allow His Holy Spirit to produce fruit (Galatians 5:22-23) in and through our lives… as we become His hands, His feet, His mouthpiece, and His heartbeat first, to each other and then, to everyone we encounter, everyone God puts in our path.
One of my favorite resources to use for study and sermon planning is a series of commentaries by pastor/scholar Warren Wiersbe. It’s called the “BE” series, as every book of the Bible is given a title relevant to its message: – Be Strong (Joshua) – Be Dynamic (Acts) … to give a couple of examples.
They are some of my favorites because they help me unpack the deep truths of God’s Word AND learn how to apply those truths to my life.
Make no mistake, our faith is most definitely one of words and speaking truth. But it MUST be supported by our actions and the lives we live. We must LIVE IT OUT.
It’s going to be a great week! We’ll see you tomorrow.