Our scripture this morning is Jude 1:22-23.
And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.
This is a hard passage to hear and harder still to live out. It tells us we are responsible to do everything we can to keep our brothers and sisters from falling into sin. It requires us to make an active effort, as individuals and Christ’s church, to save others.
This is difficult for us because it means we have to learn about the lives of others and care enough to become involved. It also means we have to speak to them in faith and love when needed. Jesus calls us to do this even as we are told “judge not”.
Jude, who gets right to the point in his one chapter letter might ask “is it judging when you warn someone to leave their burning house?” Judging means using our own earthly standard; Jesus has given us a new standard of love for one another. When we accept His forgiveness we become part of His plan to save all God’s children.
Gracious God, we are thankful for the blessing of our savior, Jesus Christ. Help us to live and love as He did, caring for our brothers and sisters and all of Your creation. Amen.
