Strange as it may seem, many adults have a hard time leaving the word "love" in the scripture as well. How is love expressed? By being the first to move to reconciliation in a disagreement. By attempting to understand the other side in a conflict. By giving attention to the needs of others. By communicating with one another. By forgiving when it isn't easy to forgive. By being open to differences of opinion.

II. Authentic Love Is Tough Love

Dr. James Dobson wrote a book many years ago entitled Tough Love. The volume deals with obstinate children and the adult response to them. His premise states that tough love is not mushy, fickle, or wimpy love, but deals with obstinate behavior even if it means difficult decisions and discipline. There is nothing shallow about authentic love.

Swindoll in the Focus on the Family article says that tough love refuses to look for ways to run away, but works things through. "It doesn't cop out because the sea gets stormy and rough. It's fibrous and resilient. Who knows how many of us would've walked away from our commitment many long years ago if it hadn't been for this powerful and essential ingredient deep down inside saying, 'Put away that white flag. Do not quit. Don't even tolerate the thought.' While the world around us gives the opposite counsel, love stands firm."

If the triumphant entry crowd would have stood firm on their love for Jesus on Good Friday, the outcome might have been different. God knew their fickle hearts, and the crucifixion went on as scheduled. How much love do you have for Jesus?

III. Authentic Love Is Heart Love

As Jesus rode down the hill from the Mount of Olives He was riding not into the kingship of the throne of the people of Israel, but into the kingship of their hearts. He came riding upon a donkey -- a symbol of peace. When Jesus claimed to be a king His claim was that of peace. As someone wrote, "He showed that He came, not to destroy, but to love; not to condemn, but to help; not in the might of arms, but in the strength of love."

Jesus said, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door (of their heart), I will come in ..." (Rev. 3:20, emphasis added).

Today, it is not some silly sentimental love that Jesus demonstrates to you. No, it is authentic love that He shows by standing outside your heart's door knocking and waiting for you to let Him inside to lovingly change your life! Will you let Him? (Derl G. Keefer)

1Charles Swindoll, Focus on the Family Magazine, Colorado Springs, Colo. March,1984, p.5.

Easter Sunday (A)

March 31, 2002

Jesus Defeated the Enemy!

John 20:1-18

Wellington's victory over Napoleon signified a momentous triumph for the British people. Word of that victory traveled overland toward London by a system of flag signals called semaphore. The semaphore on top of Winchester Cathedral began spelling out "W-e-l-l-i-n-g-t-o-n-D-e-f-e-a-t-e-d ...." Before he could finish, a fog rolled in on London and the citizens thought that Wellington had lost the battle. Their hearts were crushed. Finally the fog lifted and the semaphore continued his message: "W-e-l-l-i-n-g-t-o-n-D-e-f-e-a-t-e-d-t-h-e-E-n-e-m-y!" The preceding gloom changed to glorious hope! Like a prairie fire in Kansas, the joyful news spread across the city, and every Londoner was filled with gratitude and praise.