Today's reading

Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. –Hebrews 13:1 NIV

May 10, 2023

Jesus Loves All

Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. –Hebrews 13:1 NIV

When you think of “church,” what comes to mind? A building? A religious organization? Nelson’s Bible Dictionary defines it as “A local assembly of believers as well as the redeemed of all the ages who follow Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Church refers to all who follow Christ, without respect to locality or time. It will not be complete until after the judgment, and the assembly of all the redeemed in one place will become a reality only after the return of Christ.”

The Church isn’t a building. It’s God’s people that make up the body of Christ—His Church. Whether you belong to a small local church or a large one makes no difference to God. He loves all believers. Whether believers gather in a magnificent building, in a room at the YMCA, or in a prison cell, it doesn’t matter. God loves all of His people regardless of where they worship. 

Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34 NIV). Look beyond your own church walls as you consider your brothers and sisters in Christ. Remember, Jesus loves all people, no matter which church they attend. 

prayer focuses

Thank God for blessing you with your church—the people with whom you worship with regularly.

Ask the Lord to show you ways to encourage believers both inside and outside of your church walls.

music

latest reads

3/29/2024

All for You

3/28/2024

Know Your Enemy

3/27/2024

Get Past Your Past

3/26/2024

Freedom

3/25/2024

Cold Snap

3/24/2024

Golden Buzzer

3/23/2024

Can You Hear Me Now?

about the

Author

Barbara Alpert

Barbara was a wife, mother, and grandma who sought to love the LORD with all her heart, soul & strength. She has authored several books for adults and children. She has enjoyed mentoring other writers and seeing them turn their manuscripts into published masterpieces for God's glory. She believed that every person has a God-story within them to be told and shared. Barbara passed away peacefully in November 2023, but Bayside continues to remember and honor her legacy by sharing devotionals written by her in order to inspire and encourage others.