Many years ago, a sermon made it into the Guinness Book of World Records. It was listed as the “Shortest sermon on record.” John Albrecht, an Episcopal priest in Lake Orion, Michigan, approached the pulpit one Sunday morning, looked out to the congregation and spoke one word: “LOVE!” Then he sat down and a period of silent reflection followed. A one word sermon: “LOVE!”
If only Christian, God-like love was as easy as saying a single word! If only a single word could turn us away from sin. If only we could become better persons as quickly as saying a single word. “LOVE!” is an easy, short word to say, but it’s one of the most difficult words to put into practice, in healthy ways.
This one word is the basis for the call and challenge of Jesus to all who would follow him. LOVE GOD. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS WELL AS YOURSELF.
Unfortunately, this one word is very often misinterpreted and misused. The word doesn’t stand by itself. We say such things as: “I love ice cream.” Or “I love my spouse.” Or “I love all people.” It’s a word with many different meanings! The Greeks were smart in that regard. They had four words to distinguish the various meanings of love.
When Jesus said we are to love God, neighbor, self, the Greek word used in the Bible is “AGAPE.” This is the most godly kind of love there us. It’s unselfish. It’s sacrificial. To have AGAPE-LOVE means to be willing to serve and care for others, in a sacrificial way.
Jesus Christ loved us with Agape Love! “While we were still sinners,” Paul wrote, “while we were enemies of God, Christ died for us!” THAT is Agape Love! This is the sacrificial love that Christ calls us to. Jesus calls us and challenges us: love one another AS I HAVE LOVED YOU! One word that takes a lifetime to master.
Blessings to you, as you seek to master AGAPE-LOVE in your walk as a disciple. May God’s very Spirit guide and strengthen in in this, the most important quest of our lives!
