Mom, are you a preacher?

By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you have love and unselfish concern for one another. John 13:35 AMP

“Mom, are you a preacher?” Summer (age 8)

“No why do you ask?”

“You’re so nice, you’re never negative, are you a preacher?”

First, let me say I do have moments of negativity. I am human but it is sweet to see that my kids see and know my heart.

Initially, I told Summer no. Then this scripture was impressed upon my heart and I had to go back and correct my answer. I explained it to her like this:

“Is God in your heart?”

“Yes, mommy.”

“How do you know?”

“I feel God.”

“How do I know that God is in your heart?”

“See the Bible is clear in John 13 Jesus told His disciples that everyone would know them by how they love. Not by their wealth, not by their intelligence but by the way they intentionally and unselfishly show concern for others.

When you are kind to your brother or sister, that shows that you love God. 1 John 4:20 says, ‘if you say you love God but are mean to your sibling, then you are a liar.’ I know it is hard but the Holy Spirit can help you be kind.”

I don’t know if she got it and I am not confident that this will stop future fights with her siblings but I am blessed to know that she is paying attention to what I try so hard to do. Show God’s love. If you are a follower of God let me challenge you to love and have an unselfish concern for everyone you connect with today. Some people are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, lonely, or irritated. Be gracious, willing to forgive, and find ways to unselfishly show concern for others.

God,

Thank you for the many ways you show me love. In you, there is no lack there is only abundance. I have more than enough love to give. You love me when I feel unloveable. You forgive me when I choose to do the wrong things. You let me know you are by my side when I am fighting for what is right. You have given me more than enough. Help me to love generously and unselfishly. Help me to be intentional about sharing the way you make me feel with others. Show me ways to make other people feel special without thinking about how I can gain. Please forgive me for all the times I withheld my love from others or treated others negatively. Help me be more like you. I love you and I want to be known as yours by my actions not just by my words.

In Jesus’ name, amen.