What is an ATM?

This is my command: Love each other.

John 15:17

There are several light-up signs at the drug store next to my apartment. One particular sign flashes between two messages: “ATM” and “CASH”. At one point when I looked at it earlier, it seemed hung on “ATM” for a moment instead of changing between the two. As I thought about that, I wondered what effect it might have on someone who doesn’t know what an ATM is. The sign would be unhelpful. Until it changes to “CASH”. Woah – that’s something everybody understands!

What about the message we as Christians present to the world? If we’re stuck preaching “Jesus” but not also showing “Love”, the point isn’t likely to get across. Someone who hasn’t ever heard of Jesus won’t be able to understand Him until they understand love. That’s why Jesus gave us the command to love each other. By loving each other, we demonstrate Jesus and open the door to tell more about Him.

*Lord Jesus, thank you for giving us such a direct command. It isn’t always easy for us to follow, but we know what you commanded because you demonstrated it for us. Please help us to reveal you to others by our love. In Jesus’ Name. Amen!

You can’t have Jesus without Love.