March 28, 2016 – Psalm 37:37

Look at those who are honest and good, for a wonderful future awaits those who love peace. Psalm 37:37Love and peace live together live in harmony.  Harmony comes with honesty and goodness and above all — living in God brings love and peace to our lives.But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.  Matthew 5:44-45.  These are the teachings of Jesus Christ.  The One and Only Son of God could have called thousands of angels to rescue him from the scourging, persecution and wrongful accusations.  But he stood silent before those who hated him and crucified Him.Jesus gave his life to give us forgiveness of our sins, give us the joy and peace through his unstoppable, unending, steadfast love. His resurrection from the dead brings us hope and joy. This love allows us the way to be called the children of God.  See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. I John 3:1The lyrics by Louisa Stead rings so true….Jesus, Jesus, how I trust him! How I’ve proved him o’er and o’er!  Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust him more! I remember my grandparents and parents singing these words and this is how they lived…in God’s love and peace.  What a legacy of love to give to us and our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  What legacy are you leaving your children?I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11b