Through John’s letter, God repeatedly reminds us of His call to love. Maybe it’s because He knew how easily we’d forget or how difficult that can be for us? Relationships are hard! Whether it’s work, school, friendships, or family…and sometimes WE are the hard ones! But this scripture, along with many others, doesn’t simply suggest us to love; it is a command. We can only do this by seeking God’s perspective of people and embracing the power He supplies us to do it.
When my son was in junior high, there was a teacher that he was having a difficult time with (God bless Junior High teachers). He would complain and grumble about him, and he always felt like this teacher was out to get him and his friends. We’d remind him to be respectful but could tell he didn’t really appreciate our input. Well, one beautiful Sunday afternoon, a good size crowd of Cypress Creek Church folks descended on Blue Hole to witness some baptisms. My son stood in shock as this teacher waded into the cool waters to baptize his lovely pregnant wife. I realized in that moment that God was giving my son His perspective. A person who had previously been viewed as an adversary now was seen as a husband and father who was leading his family well. Not only did my son never complain about him again, but he also grew to respect him and had a good relationship with him for the remainder of his school years.
God is love. And He can change our perspective of people if we’re willing to let Him.