This is what Love looks like

“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."  Matthew 10:21-22

I think it’s safe to say that the times we live in are both frightening and hopeful. Last night I went to

Peter Kassig

bed thinking on the letter Peter Kassig wrote to his parents. He wrote the letter in anticipation of his own death.  This morning, those of us in the eastern time zone woke up to the news about the gruesome murders of 5 worshipers in Jerusalem by two Palestinians young men. As l considered both tragedies it became apparent that the last decade has seen a significant increase in the level of violence as it relates to religion.

As Chris Matthews, host of MSNBC Hardball read Peter's letter to his parents, I couldn't help but admire Peter's courage and be inspired by his faith. Here is a young man who went to Syria to help those suffering from the horrors of war. He didn't wait for an  invitation, he was compelled by compassion and paid the ultimate price. The ultimate price for daring to love and serve where the powerful and capable refuse to go. Those professing the same faith as he did stood over and cowardly murdered him.

Jesus said, "Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of ... you didn't do it for one of the least important of these, you didn't do it for me. ... to you, as long as you did it not to one of these least, neither did you do it to me. [Matthew 25:31-46]

Peter Kassig lived a short life, yet his life was courageous and fruitful. He will be remembered long after his murderers are forgotten. His life is in contrast to some of us who profess Christianity yet practice a life style contrary to the tenants of our faith. Peter lived by the example and teachings of Christ. He reminds us that there are some Christians who are willing to defy the madness and hatred sweeping our world and dedicate their life to Christ.

Peter is among my heroes of faith.

Greater love has no man than this, that a man should lay down his life for his friends - John 15:13