Love One Another

Jesus' command to all of us is to "Love each other" as He has loved us.

"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you."
John 15:12

But exactly how do we love? The Apostle John tells us:

"Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."
1 John 3:18

It's easier to tell someone you love him or her than it is to "love" them with actions and in truth. Truly loving someone requires sacrifice on the giver's part. When we take action, we are making a sacrifice. Love is an action verb. John Townsend gives us the definition of love as "seeking the welfare of another." Seeking the welfare of another is love in action.

"Words, although important, were not nearly as important as the acts of love and kindness that were shown to us. Words spoken were exactly that. Things done speak much louder and last much longer."
Dwayne Potteiger (cancer survivor)

The Apostle Paul speaks of love in action:

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality."
Romans 12:9-13

So what does "love in action" look like in a cancer support group?

Love one another by being there. Lending a listening ear without saying a word is one of the greatest ways to express love. You don't need to always have an answer.

Love one another in prayer. Be aware of the prayer needs within your group and then follow through with specific, fervent prayer. Pray with them.

Love one another through acts of kindness. Be aware of the cancer patient's and his/her family's practical needs. Coordinate ways to help meet those needs.

Jan Dravecky