Give a Little Love

I came across this video earlier in the month on facebook, and nearly posted it then given that I saw it against the backdrop of community tensions in Belfast over the flying of the Union flag. But I thought I would hold it over to play in the light of this week's Advent candle theme of "Love."

I also do it in the light of the act of thanksgiving for the work of Dundonald Family and Community Initiative that we are having today in church because it is unfortunately having to close because of lack of funds. There were those who objected to having that as part of this morning's service incase it took the focus off the message of Christmas, but actually, for me DFCI's closure puts the message of Christmas into stark relief...

God so loved the world that he didn't establish a "programme" or "initiative" - he sent his son (John 3: 16). He took on flesh and blood and moved into the neighbourhood (John 1: 14).

There are times when we, as Christ's body, think that we can programme or professionalise God's love for the world... But we are called to love one another as he has loved us... Incarnationally... Sacrificially... Putting flesh and blood on the Christmas story...

If we were REALLY to do that as individual Christians and as churches, then we wouldn't need to look for funding for programmes like DFCI, whether it be to the lottery or to anywhere else...

If we as Christians were to love our neighbours as we love ourselves and we as churches were to love our neighbourhoods, then perhaps there wouldn't be unrest on our streets, be it about flags or anything else...

But just as God gave up heaven to show that he loves us, we need to give up our cosy wee corners and get out into the world...

Give a little love...

Shalom

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