Active Love

by Heather Tietz

Jesus therefore said to those Judeans who had believed him, “If you remain in my word, then you are truly my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”

John 8:31-32

Christianity is an action. Among all the other things it is- philosophy, theology, tradition, it is action foremost. More than book knowledge, more than great conviction, Christianity is an active belief, an active heart, an active faith moving feet, hands, and mouths to Godly action.

When Jesus encourages the people to remain in His word, He isn’t talking about walking around with scripture under their nose. The people in His time wouldn’t have had access to the travel size Old Testament. Jesus’ words hadn’t been written down yet. They were just infiltrating people’s spirits. The word “remain” here means “abide” or “to be as one with.” Jesus said we are His disciples when we live His words when we abide in Him, when we act as Him, all day, every day.

The Holy Spirit has changed us. We wear evidence of Him in our decisions, in how we treat our spouse, our co-workers, our children, our neighbors, that person who stole our parking space, and that family with the screaming child on the seat next to us. Love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness and self-control are our dress. We cover our bodies with them.

Our unsteady hormones, our tired limbs, our wavering feeling have to be covered in prayer and in God’s words. That’s how we abide with Christ. Our efforts at seeking God make us truly His disciples.