1 John 4:20-21 (NIV)
20 Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or
sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they
have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. 21 And he has given us
this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.
As a basis to Christianity we profess to love God. God
through Christ tells us to love those around us. Therefore how can a Christian
profess to love God who cannot be seen and yet not love those in need who can
be see?
A young lady named Sally took a seminary class taught by
Professor Smith, who was known for his elaborate object lessons. One day Sally
walked into class to find a large target placed on the wall, with several darts
resting on a nearby table. Professor Smith told the students to draw a picture
of someone they disliked or someone who had made them angry—and he would allow
them to throw darts at the person's picture.
Sally's friend (on her right), drew a picture of another
woman who had stolen her boyfriend. Another friend (on her left), drew a
picture of his younger brother. Sally drew a picture of Professor Smith,
putting a great deal of detail into her drawing, even drawing pimples on his
face! She was quite pleased at the overall effect she'd achieved.
The class lined up and began throwing darts amidst much
laughter. Some of the students threw with such force that they ripped apart
their targets. But Sally, looking forward to her turn, was filled with
disappointment when Professor Smith asked the students to return to their seats
so he could begin his lecture. As Sally fumed about missing her chance to throw
the darts, the professor began removing the target from the wall.
Underneath the target was a picture of Jesus. A hush fell
over the room as each student viewed the mangled image of their Savior—holes
and jagged marks covered his face. His eyes were virtually pierced out.
Professor Smith said only these words, "Inasmuch as
ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
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