Who You Represent

People often wear clothing that represent a thought, feeling, idea or even an organization. Motorcycle clubs, for example, wear vests with their club patches or logos. These vests tell others that they are a part of something larger and that they belong to and represent that organization. 

Belonging is a very important feeling. It is something that we not only need but long for. As an adult you get to pick that affiliation, the place where you will belong. But you should never forget that all affiliations have their own house rules. As a member of the bass fishing team are expected to fish, so are members of every other affiliation expected to do something, the house way. 

Affiliation with God and Jesus Christ is no different but it is also not burdensome. He tells us in Matthew 11 that his yoke is easy and his burden is light. He supports that statement with giving us only two commandments to love God and to love your neighbor as you love yourself. This is especially critical because it gives us a very clear and guiding concept "If your affiliation promotes behavior that is not demonstrating loving kindness, it is not aligned with God." 

So, for example, if you are a member of a club that promotes hate or dissension, it is not aligned with God. If you are a leader of an organization that works to rob from the poor to promote the desires of the rich, it is not aligned with God. If you are a member of an organization that uses violence to facilitate its growth in power, it is not aligned with God. If you are a member of an organization that promotes self harm in any way, it is not aligned with God. 

To follow Christ you have to be willing to give up anything and everything that is not aligned with loving Him and loving others. It's a simple command, but a powerful one. And honestly, wouldn't we all rather live in a world full of love than a world where people are constantly hurting each other?

So I ask you, what do you represent? If it's a group that is not showing love, I urge you to reconsider that affiliation. You may feel that you are losing a brotherhood or "friends" but I promise you, He is faithful and a rewarder of those seeking to do His will. He will absolutely repay you for any losses along the way. Represent God and the body of Christ. Do so by demonstrating loving kindness, warmth, forgiveness, patience and all the other attributes that you would want someone to demonstrate towards you and the people you love.