One Anothers Part II: The Competitive Call to Christian Selflessness
- Dr. Victor Stanley
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
One day, while viewing photos, I ran across an image of two kids sharing a treat. It was clear that they were not related or had previously known one another. Nevertheless, this did not seem to hinder the act of kindness, evidenced through the act of one child giving to another who had not.
Isn’t it sweet how two children who didn't know one another can instantly be kind to each other? At the same time, tragically, many teens and adults find it difficult to be kind, considerate, or honorable to one another. It is striking that young children have to be taught the things that divide adults—like racism, elitism, or bigotry.
Additionally, it is very striking that one thing we do not have to be taught is selfishness or greed. It comes naturally. There are cases wherein a person can be kind and generous, only to have another person take advantage of them. There are other instances in which a person can reason within themselves that they are right, even when they are wrong. God has called us to be better than this, and he has not failed to communicate it.
One Anothers: This is the thing that God wants us to be, through Christ. In fact, he calls us to go over and above by “Outdoing one another,” in love (Romans 12:10). God has always had a purpose and a plan. And his plan has always included you, and he has not failed to communicate it.
Some people have the attitude to live for today. Therefore, they live according to the thought that they intend to eat, drink, and be merry, often with reckless abandon, before they die. Frankly, as far as they are concerned, life is all about them—their own fulfillment. This is not true of God. God has always made life about others. He proved this when Christ came and gave his life for others. His passion and desire is for you to find fulfillment in Him. He calls for us to be His One Anothers, and he has not failed to communicate it.
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. – Romans 12:9-11
God’s call is clear. The question is, are you able to respond with equal clarity and commitment? The characteristics include being a person of love, honor, zeal, fervent in spirit, and faithful in service. The choice is up to you.
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