In Mark 5:2-42 alone we see Jesus reaching out to possessed people, fearful people, pleading people, negative people, positive people, obedient people, amazed people, submissive people, pressing people, suffering people, fake people, mocking people, and astonished people. I have some of those people in my life and only the love of God can enable me to build relationship with  them!

But, when I remember that Jesus laid down His life for me, I can love. When I remember the cross and the personal connection that salvation brought to me, I can love. When I read scripture and am reminded of how Jesus loved lepers, prostitutes, bleeding women, blind guides, possessed people, hateful mockers, and so many others, I can love. Then, I stretch my arms out wide to heaven and say, “I want all your love, all your commands, all your joy in all kinds of relationships Lord!” I am not holding anything back from the Lord in fear or selfishness. I am not afraid of being a living sacrifice surrendering to all His commands and obeying by faith in all the relationships He brings into my life.

Maybe you have some of those same people in your life and are challenged to love.  Take time to read Mark 5:2-42 and ask the Lord to give you fresh eyes to see how to build the relationships that He puts into your life.