Most Jews in Israel are raised with the Law of God as their basis. From an early age, the children memorize the Torah. In broad daylight, Jews stand on street corners and recite the Torah by heart.

They are so dedicated in their religion and put so much energy into it. They sacrifice so much and make sure they don’t break any of the rules. What is very sad, however, is that many of them do not believe that Jesus is their Saviour.

But how wonderful it is when one of them accepts Jesus as their Savior. When they get it, the scales fall from their eyes. All of a sudden, the Old Testament and the predictions of Jesus’ coming make complete sense.

Then they become the teacher and take the people who led them to faith to an even deeper understanding. Because they have memorised large portions of the Old Testament, the puzzle pieces start fitting together and they understand it even better than our Christian friends.

These Jews are called the Messianic Jews. There are already quite a few Messianic Jews and of course they also raise their children in the belief that Jesus is their long-awaited Savior.

Unfortunately, more and more of the children are losing their faith in Christ. They are called the Prodigals. The lost sons and daughters who’ve decided to go their own way instead.

A friend of ours was very touched by this and wanted to know what the cause was. She made appointments with the parents of these children, but they did not want to talk. You see, the parents were leaders in the churches and even ministers and pastors.

They were ashamed because their children had strayed. It was the best kept secret among the Messianic Jews. But the children spoke up about it, and like a golden thread it is woven into every conversation: “The parents tell them about Jesus and about love, but it is not visible at all in their actions.” There are many differences between the Christian faith communities. Some don’t even talk to each other.

It’s heartbreaking. A whole new generation that should have continued living the Christian faith is turning their backs for one reason: love is missing.

Remember this command: ²²Now that you’ve cleaned up your lives by following the truth, love one another … and to do it passionately: … as if your lives depended on it.

That is also Jesus’ command – we must love our neighbour as we love ourselves. Sincerely, without any ulterior motives. People soon find out if there is something wrong with the pipe. People know if it’s plastic. Children especially read us very well. Better than we think.

We must love everyone, friend and foe, at all costs. We must love them from our hearts. We must love them passionately and our actions must show it, so that it binds the people around us together and draws them closer to Jesus. May this be true for each of us today, tomorrow and the rest of our lives.

Scripture
1 Peter 1:22-25

Reflection
Where has your lovelessness pushed people away?
Where has your love drawn people to God?
How can you always do this?

Prayer
Father, forgive me for sometimes being unloving and pushing people away, also from You. May I make plans to let Your love take root in and around me. I ask this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.