Love Moved First

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:8

Are you a planner? Do you enjoy social interactions and to spend time with friends and family? Do you take the initiative and invite them for lunch or coffee?  

Maybe you are one who is super busy with everyday life. You may have small children, or a demanding job. When others invite, you will carve out time to accept the invitation.

Do you think, “I haven’t heard from so and so,” but don’t reach out? Do you wait for others to make the first move?

In different seasons, or even with different relationships, I have been both. Now, I am an empty nester. I enjoy much more free time than when my daughter was growing up to organize groups of ladies for a Bible Study, to play Bunco, and to spend time with friends and family members over a cup of coffee or lunch.  

No matter which personality you identify with, Jesus is a beautiful example. He didn’t wait for us to make the first move. In fact, Romans 5:8 says, But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.He became a man and walked this earth only to die a sinner’s death while we were steeped in sin. He knew we needed a Savior.

So, if you are the inviter, keep checking in and inviting. Galatians 6:9 reminds us to not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Keep making the first move.

Our souls long for connection, so if you are in a season that prevents extra time to initiate contact with others, let this encourage you to reach out to that important someone. Check on them and see how they are doing. Invite them for coffee if you can carve out some time. It will bless you both. 

Lord, thank you for creating us to be relational. Help us to intentionally keep connected and loving each other. In Jesus’ Name.

Johna Clemons