The Tie That Binds

(Jesus said) A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13: 34-35 (NIV Bible)


While I love contemporary music, there are some hymns that I fondly remember. For me the hymn, “Blest Be The Tie That Binds” is reflected in this drawing as the ties connect everything through the cross. The colors are bright and vibrant, illustrating the love of the Lord Jesus. The words in the hymn speak to: “the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love; we share each other’s woes, our mutual burdens bear; before our Father’s throne we pour our ardent prayers; for each other flows the sympathizing tear.”

Jesus told us that the world would know us by our love for each other. And, yes, there is another song: “they will know we are Christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they will know we are Christians by our love.” People who know me well, have heard me say on more than one occasion, “Take care how you behave today. You might be the only Jesus someone sees!” Remember, we are saved by Grace, and then respond in love by being like Jesus. For example, James 2:17 in the Message: “Isn’t obvious that God-talk without God-acts is outrageous nonsense.” We are to use our gifts to the very best of our ability, to live each day as an example for others until that day when the Lord returns. And, He will return, but we know not when.

I have always loved Isaiah 40:28-31: “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.” As you go out into the marketplace, walk and talk like Jesus showing that you are a Christian by your love. And keep a sharp eye looking for that person God has put on your radar screen today.