Lenten Devotional Week Four

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35 LENTEN THOUGHT Love is often shown as sacrifice. As I watch the world react to the global spread of COVID-19, I think back to another plague. The Antonine Plague of 165 to 180 AD, also known as the Plague of Galen, was a virus brought back to the Roman Empire by returning troops. Although not occurring in the biblical era, this plague was crucial to the history and rise of Christianity. It was through this very trying time that  Christians exemplified the love that Jesus taught us. While pagans fled from the sick to protect themselves, Christians provided food and water for those too ill to fend for themselves. At great risk to their lives and the lives of those around them, they saved many, non-believers and believers alike. The Christian sacrifice stunned the pagan world. Christian sacrifice for non-Christian survivors, who benefited from the love of their Christian neighbors, led to mass conversions. It was in a time of crisis that Christians showed what it truly means to be a follower of Christ. CHALLENGE In this time of uncertainty, do what you can to help others, especially the elderly, disabled, and poor. Although many of us will not be on the front lines treating patients like the forerunners of our faith did, we can still show love to our neighbors. We can take all the necessary precautions because recklessly spreading the disease is certainly not love. Do not forget the fundamental Christian duty to love and help others. The four walls of a church should not limit us, for the church remains the church whether gathered or scattered. *This week's devotional was contributed by Rachel Inselmann, MBF Intern, maker of all things organized and up and coming Dr. She needs a couple years yet. * Apologies from the Editor for getting this to you a day late. Thanks for reading with us.

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