United lUtheran Church - Pastor's Page

Pastor's Page

GOD LOVES YOU

"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." - John 15:13 (NIV)

"Do you love me?" Most of us have an early memory of asking our Mom or Dad this question over and over as we followed them around the house. "Of course I do," would be the most common reply as they paused from what they were doing.

But some kids never really believe that. Especially if they feel left out of the loop or somehow different from others. When Pastor assured the class God loves us, one boy was skeptical. Why would God love someone the others delighted in taunting? Especially someone they call "Bambi legs,' and "dirt road Emil." Sadly, once you’ve been labeled, it mentality sticks with you. I know some who have even had dreams about being surrounded by jeering classmates.

The story continues the next morning with the boy still feeling left out and not liking himself very much. "No one has ever really loved me," he concluded bleakly, "Not even God." That afternoon, a friend sent him an e-mail note brimming with affection. 'Thank you for all you do, it means a great deal to me.' At first he marveled at the great timing. What a coincidence, he thought.

Later that evening, as he listened to a recording on the phone machine, a chill raced up and down his spine. The caller was a person he didn’t know, who had seen him help a classmate with homework in school. She said she’d been moved by the Holy Spirit to contact him. "I want you to know I’m praying for you." "Hmmm" he thought, something special is going on here. "OK Lord," he whispered in prayer. "I get it. You’re telling me you love me. And you’re reminding me that you never give up on anyone. Not even those of us who are labeled as being different."

Every day in our Baptism we are reminded how much God loves each and every one of us. We are reminded in small ways that many times go unnoticed. No matter who we are, what we have done, or how we are thought of by others. God says to each of us. "I love You. You are special to me."

"Be imitators of God as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us." . . (Ephesians 5:1, 2).

UNITED LUTHERAN CHURCH 506 Superior Ave. - Crystal Falls, Michigan 49920 - Phone 906-875-6591 unitedluth@up.net