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Our natural inclination is self-preservation and self-defense, but the Gospel calls us to something different: love for those who hate us. We reinforce in our hearts and minds the self-centered-ness through mental shadow boxing, always reminding ourselves that we are right and important and that others are not. However, the Bible challenges this notion and calls us to love others.
“You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.” (Leviticus 19:17–18 ESV)
On Sunday, we will explore the call of the Gospel to love others as Christ has loved us, and to fight the heart battle against hatred.
Liturgy for Corporate Worship:
Be Thou My Vision – Citizens & Saints
Because He Lives (Amen) – Matt Maher
Oh! Great Is Our God! – The Sing Team
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Photo by Joshua Jordan on Unsplash
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