"Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:8 (NRSV)
As disciples of Christ, we try our best not to sin. I would say most of the time; we are pretty good at not committing intentional sin. We are aware of the temptation and stay away. Harder is our ability not to commit unintentional sin. After all, if we are not aware that we are sinning, we cannot stop it. We are flawed, and we sometimes say and do things that cause harm. God forgive us -- and he does.
Today's verse tells us to have continual love for each other. Other versions say to love fervently, deeply, and constantly. Eugene Peterson, in The Message, says, "Most of all, love each other as if your life depended on it." When we love like this, it becomes easier for us to forgive each other's sins. Those things said accidentally and unknowingly, those actions taken without thinking them through thoroughly, can be ignored. We can acknowledge each other for the flawed family of God that we are and continue to love each other as God loves us -- warts and all.
God, we give you thanks for love and forgiveness. You sent your Son to die for our multitude of sins. The intentional and unintentional sins of each and every one of us. We try our best not to sin, but we still error. Without thinking, we sometimes do and say things that hurt each other. Father forgive us. Please help us to love each other as you love us. When we sin towards each other, give us a heart of forgiveness. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Peace and Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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