Don't Debate...LOVE!
I'm sitting here watching the Republican Debate on CNN and trying not to turn the channel. Its not because I agree or disagree with what they are saying, its not because I prefer a different candidate. It is simply because I see very little love on the stage. Now I do believe they have a passion for our country, and want to see change, but like pretty much every politician I have heard in my lifetime they are more combative towards other candidates or the incumbent as opposed to loving of the country they are ultimately speaking to.So now you may be thinking, oh boy, Charles is getting on a soap box. Nope. That's all I have to say about that. The comparison I wanted to make and what watching this debate made me think about is what would Jesus Christ look like on the debate floor? Jesus was put in this position in many different situations throughout His life. Did Jesus blame others, or become combative with those who opposed Him? NO He Did Not. He responded in love just as He always did. And as a result Jesus Christ is still the greatest leader in the history of the world. People still follow Christ (including myself) because of the LOVE that He showed. In John 15:17, Jesus said it very simply..."This is my command: Love each other."It is very easy to turn against one another and blame other people. Its much harder to love your neighbor and respond in love to those that are opposing you. But yet, that is what Jesus did so well and calls us to do.Matthew 22:39 - "Love your neighbor as yourself"Matthew 5:44 - "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."Matthew 5:39 - "If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also"Back to the debate. My mouth would hit the floor if anyone of the candidates showed a characteristic from any of these commands from our Lord. Every one of them looks to "fight back" to those that oppose them. And its not completely their fault, the entire debate is set up to allow them the opportunity to do just that.Don't get in a debate with others and have it broadcast to the world. Showcase love to others and have people wanting to follow you as a result of that. Don't debate...just love!