"One-anothering"

3/24/09 “One-anothering”
Sermon notes from Taylor Park 1/11/09 (day before my biopsy)
“One anothering the suffering:
Applications for Lamenting and Comforting”

God’s Word has so many admonitions for “one-anothering.” (30, according to Taylor)

Love one another earnestly from a pure heart. (1 Peter 1:22) seems to be the basis/cornerstone for all of the other “one-anothers.” This action is not a casual love but one compelled by God. It is intense, deep and intentional. It is from the heart.

More “one anothers” for consideration---these are easily an overflow of loving one another:
· Bear one another’s burdens. (Gal. 6:2)
· Honor one another above self. (Rom. 12:10)
· Be kind to one another. (Eph.4:32)
· Show hospitality to one another without grumbling (1 Peter 4:9) This isn’t entertainment; this is done freely by coming alongside others in desperate times of suffering. (Could write an entire blog on this aspect of one-anothering.)
· Humbly serve one another. (John 13:14)
· Pray for one another----healing included here. (James 5:6)

I have been “ONE-ANOTHERED!”--------- one-anothered from Memphis to Dallas and across the globe and I am grateful!

What about you? Has someone “one-anothered” you? How did you respond? Do they know of your heart’s gratitude? If not, tell them.

Is there someone in your life/sphere of influence you could one-another? Consider “one-anothering” someone in pain whether emotional or physical by offering to serve during this time of their suffering. Doesn’t have to be a biggie like illness or death---though it could be. Just respond in “one-anothering” to the one(s) God brings to mind or across your path this next week.

Just do it! Make today a day to move self (excuses) out of the way and “one-another” someone else or several others. You’ll be glad you did and so will they.