There’s an agency here in the Treasure Valley called Love, INC. One might assume that the title means Love, Incorporated. But it actually means Love – In the Name of Christ. The goal of the agency is to mobilize local churches to reach out to a hurting and needy world in the name of Christ.

Throughout history, people have said they were acting in the name of Jesus, when in reality it was for their own advantage. During World War II, the horrors of the Holocaust were rationalized by labeling the Jews "Christ-killers." Today racist groups dare to use "Christian" in their name or literature while using violence and hatred to intimidate people.

The Bible is so saturated with the word "love" that it's hard to imagine how anyone could justify doing hateful acts in the name of Christ. Love is at the core of the gospel: The willing sacrifice of Jesus on the cross was motivated by the love of God. 1 John 4:9 reminds us that: "In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him."

As grateful followers of Christ, we are told by Colossians 3:17 to "do all in the name of the Lord Jesus." When we represent Him to other people in word and deed, they should see love, in the name of Christ.

                                          Adapted from Cindy Hess Kasper in Our Daily Bread

Teach me to love – this is my plea;
May all the Spirit's graces shine through me;
Tear from my heart all hate, foolish pride;
Help me to live like Christ the crucified.

                                         – John W. Peterson
                                        © 1968 John W. Peterson Music Company.

1 Corinthians 3:13 states: "Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, . . . but have not love, it profits me nothing."