LOVING THE OUTCAST

Baca: 1 JOHN 4:7-21

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Bacaan tahunan: Leviticus 24-25

Being the target of hatred by a neighbor, a mother is ostracized by many other neighbors. Even though they understand that the mother is actually innocent, they prefer to follow the neighbor's treatment. Apparently, the "terrifying" reputation of the neighbor's bad behavior has successfully intimidated many people around him.

Unlike some people who choose the path of peace even though it is unfair, Jesus never avoided people because they were hated or ostracized by many, even those in power. The Bible records that Jesus was willing to sit and eat with tax collectors and sinners (Luke 5:29-32). Jesus also spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well, which even made His disciples amazed (John 4:1-42). Jesus also defended the woman who was about to be stoned for adultery (John 8:1-11). Jesus showed that love does not yield to social pressure. Jesus taught that true love sees divine dignity in every person.

May the love that comes from God motivate us to no longer live in fear, including the fear of social rejection. On the contrary, love encourages us to have the courage to treat every person-especially those who are oppressed, shunned, and considered lowly (marginalized/outcast)-with respect and kindness, surpassing our fear of facing people with bad behavior. For love is not just about feelings, but real actions reflecting the heart of God. --EBL/www.renunganharian.net

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LIVING IN LOVE IS EVIDENCE OF LIVING WITH GOD.

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