In a parody of a song from Disney’s “Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs” are the words, “I owe, I owe, So off to work I go”. Making a living is a necessity as there are bills to pay. It is also a good thing in that it not only serves to support ourselves, but also provides something to share with others. (i.e. Ephesians 4:28) As many may look to the day when they will owe nothing, will such a time come?
There are various ways in which things are owed. There can be a sharing with those who have taught us (i.e. Galatians 6:6) as we are ever grateful for the message of salvation they shared with us. In view of the world in which we live, in his letter to the church at Rome Paul noted the appropriate paying of taxes, revenue, respect, and honor to those to whom it was owed. (Romans 13:7) From there Paul went on to state. . .
“(8) Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.” (Romans 13:8 ESV)
Especially as we consider the great love our Lord has for us, might we not agree that is a debt which remains outstanding? In view of that magnanimous love, are we allowing it to transcend our life to touch the lives of others? Paul went on to note how love was both a summation of the law and a fulfilling of it. (Romans 13:9-10) Having been loved so much, loving is a debt on which we are to continue to pay. And though we could never repay Christ for the love with which He has loved us, besides genuinely loving Him in return, another way of paying on that debt is by paying it forward; continuing to love our neighbor as ourself. Being His disciples who have been called to love (i.e. John 13:35), may that love be unending (1 Corinthians 13:8) as His love properly compels us to also love!
Have a great day DULY ACKNOWLEDGING OUR INDEBTEDNESS TO CHRIST’S LOVE!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
