The True Mark

Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

This is a banner verse for all believers, and rightly so. However today this verse came at me from a different angle.

The verse assures us of our place with God. Nothing we can do will ever separate us from his love. Yes, this is an encouraging reminder.

But it is also a sobering one -- for it is the true mark of Phariseeism to love others less even while claiming to love God more. This is impossible.

The key word in the verse above is love. There are many things we can do which will separate us from God. But nothing we can do will separate us from the love of God. In that little word lies the difference.

A timely reminder. Too often I feel God calling me to a different place. And I begin to scorn those who won't go there. But that is to remove not only my proximity to others but also my love and concern for them.

The loss of the former may be required. The loss of the latter is prohibited. I veer away not only from people but also from God if my love for others does anything but increase. Pity the soul who is separated not only from the world but also from God. Is there a more lonely place to be in this universe?

Which is why I write this reflection. Because my love has not been increasing. That is the true mark of one who is drawing nearer to God.

Lord, help me to return to you. To mark progress, among other things, by my love for others.