First Responders - Part 12

Called to love people well, particularly in their difficult moments or seasons. From the grand gestures to granular moments redeemed new creations in Christ, we GET to respond and love well by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit reigning in our lives.John 13:34-35 1 John 3:18-24 1 John 4:7-19Love through presencethe day-to-day, face-to-face relationships, and interactions we have with othersColossians 3:12-14 Ephesians 4:1-3 Ephesians 5:1-2What does it look like to walk in love?-Saving a life-Letting someone stay at your house-Defending someone who's getting picked on/slandered-Giving someone a generous gift (monetary or otherwise)-Asking for forgiveness for something you did or said-Extending forgiveness for something someone else did or said against you-Praying for someone who's going through something-Asking about someone's day or week (and listening to the response)-Being slow to speak and quick to listen to your spouse/s.o./kids/co-workers-Asking God to give you perspective about and patience for someone who's difficult-…and thousands more...We need to be assertive in looking outward-- SEEING people for real-- and extending the compassion and kindness of Jesus to them. We can do this because we've been adopted into the family of our Almighty God, who now indwells us and empowers us with His grace! ...Christ in you, the hope of glory! (Col. 1:27b)Discussion questions:1) What does loving people well mean to you?2) What does responding and loving well look like (from the grand to the granular) practically in your life? List things you think of.3) As responders of love, to whom in your life do you think you could extend more compassion and kindness?4) Is there anyone you need to forgive?