A Reflection on Love, Humility, and Unity
Introduction
The holiday season—especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year—invites us to pause for reflection, gratitude, and celebration of Christ’s birth. It is a time that points us back to the boundless love Christ showed to all humanity. Yet, beyond the traditions and joyful gatherings, Thanksgiving, Christmas, also provides an opportunity to look inward and renew our commitment to living in the way of love—the very love Christ revealed through His life, sacrifice, and resurrection.
The Call to Love
Choosing to walk in love is not a passive act; it requires an intentional dedication to follow Christ’s example. Paul challenges us in Ephesians 5:1-2 to “be imitators of God” and pursue a life marked by love, modeled after Christ’s own sacrificial, humble, and unconditional love. This love reaches beyond those who are easy to care for—it extends even to our adversaries and those who test us. Jesus’s words in Matthew 5:44 call us to “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” reminding us that true love knows no boundaries.
Such teachings are especially relevant in today’s climate, where division and discord seem prevalent in our society and even within our places of worship. As Christians, we are called to rise above these fractures. Love is the bridge that can mend broken relationships and bring unity, even when differences seem overwhelming.
Lessons for a Divided Nation
America has faced challenges in recent years—political unrest, social tensions, and divisions within the church—which underscore the deeper issues within our hearts. Psalm 19:12 asks, “Who can discern his own errors? Cleanse me from my hidden faults.” This call to self-examination is essential if we are to move forward together, united under God.
The upheaval we witness isn’t without purpose. Jeremiah 17:9-10 reminds us, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.” God uses these moments of turmoil to reveal what is hidden, purify us, and draw us nearer to Him.
A Heart of Humility
To truly walk in the way of love, we must first embrace humility. Proverbs 4:23 teaches, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Our hearts shape our choices and interactions; if we allow bitterness or anger to take root, these emotions will inevitably surface in our behavior. Ephesians 4:31-32 instructs, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Humility is not self-deprecation; rather, it’s about focusing less on ourselves and more on serving others and relying on God. When we humble ourselves, we open our lives for God’s work, enabling us to forgive, empathize, and love without limits.
Love as an Action
Love is more than a feeling—it is a deliberate choice and action. It often requires effort, especially when directed toward those who challenge us. Colossians 3:14 calls love “the perfect bond of unity,” highlighting its power to bring together what was once divided, heal old wounds, and rebuild what was torn down.
In these times of uncertainty, our words and actions hold great importance. Ephesians 4:29 encourages, “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building up those in need and bringing grace to those who listen.” Our speech can either deepen rifts or foster understanding. As Christ’s followers, our words should always reflect His love and grace.
Praying for Our Leaders
One of the most impactful ways to walk in love is to pray—for our families, communities, and leaders. 1 Timothy 2:2 urges us to pray for “all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” Prayer isn’t about changing God’s mind, but about bringing our hearts in line with His will. By praying for leaders, we acknowledge God’s sovereignty and invite His wisdom into their decisions.
Even when we disagree with those in power, we are called to intercede for them. This act of prayer demonstrates love, humility, and trust in God’s ultimate plan.
The Way Forward
As the holiday season approaches, we are called to pause and reflect on the state of our hearts before God. David’s humble prayer in Psalm 139:23-24—“Search me, O God, and know my heart… See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting”—serves as a powerful example of sincere self-examination. During this special time, let us invite God to uncover what resides within us, trusting Him to cleanse our intentions and direct our actions.
Let us make a conscious decision to pursue the path of love. While this journey may present challenges, it is ultimately fulfilling and rich with reward. Love is the cornerstone of genuine peace and unity, mirroring the character of Christ and revealing the life-changing power of the Gospel. With prayer, thoughtful reflection, and a renewed dedication to love, we can become vessels of hope and healing in a fractured world.
For followers of Christ, love is not simply a suggestion—it is a command from our Lord. By embracing love, offering forgiveness, and striving to live as Christ did, we shine His light for others to see and walk the path that leads to everlasting life. May our lives radiate His love throughout this season, drawing those around us closer to God’s heart.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 