(May 23, 2010)

Think about some of the commercials that you've seen and how some try to portray that their product will create world peace. For example, Coca-Cola had a commercial that instructed people to "buy the world a Coke" and we'll have world "harmony".

In advertising, we have "stick-on" commercials. These are commercials that try to get people emotionally attached to a product. It's effective in many cases. But, we know that a certain fabric softener doesn't prove to kids that their Moms love them. Wouldn't it be great if more companies actually spread true love? Some companies send money or products to needy folks for every product sold in America. Great concept, eh?

Jesus calls us to love other people and mean it. He doesn't want "stick-on" emotions. He doesn't want emotional ploys. He wants out actions and our money to speak loud in His name.

There is a difference between a "stick-on" commitment and a real commitment to Christ. Some people just want fire insurance, they want to be saved from hell. How can they show that they really Love God? They can keep His Commandments. When Jesus calls us, it's not because He wants an emotional commitment. He wants a real commitment. It's not about our feelings. It's about our willingness to follow Him. To Love Jesus is to keep His Commandments. To keep His Commandments is to Love Jesus.

If the test is whether or not we follow His Commandments, then we know that Love is not automatic. It's not easy. How do we learn Love? Ask yourself questions like How do I respond to others? Or, How do I handle pressure?

How do you evaluate this? It takes a lifetime and we measure up against Jesus' life. How would HE respond to others? How would HE handle pressure? Following Jesus means to do what is convenient AND inconvenient! If you aren't willing to do both, you aren't keeping His Commandments. Would your actions make others want to join you at your church or not?

When we keep Jesus' Commandments to Love, it doesn't always mean that we will feel rewarded. We won't always get the "warm fuzzies". Sometimes they can be nasty to you. Sometimes there is no reciprocation.

- Jon Bruney
(credit to Homiletics)