Today's message was written by my friend, the late Rev. Roger Kunkel, founder of Dial Hope.

Friend of Dial Hope, Jesus is the measuring stick for words of love.

He spoke words of tenderness: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

He spoke words of peace: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you." (John 14:27)

He spoke words of hope: "In my Father's house are many rooms." (John 14:2)

He spoke words of love: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. By this all people will know that you are my disciples — if you have love for one another." (John 13:34-35)

This is our calling as well: to speak words that reflect kindness, gentleness, appreciation, and love — because Jesus first loved us.

Prayer: Awesome God, today help us to notice. Help us to care. Help us to be available to any person in need. For in loving others, we love you. In serving others, we serve you. In ministry to others, we find our lives strengthened and enriched. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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