05/03/2026
5 March 2026
Theme: Loving in Deed and in Truth – The Evidence of Abiding
Text: First Epistle of John 3:18
“My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.”
Introduction
On this 5th day of March, our Lenten meditation moves from abiding in love to expressing that love in action. Yesterday we reflected on dwelling in divine love; today we consider the outward evidence of that inward reality.
Love that abides must also act.
Love that is true must also be seen.
Lent calls us beyond profession into practice, beyond speech into sacrifice.
Love Beyond Words
The apostle speaks tenderly — “My little children.” This is pastoral language, urging sincerity of heart.
Christian love is not theatrical or exaggerated in speech; it is steady, practical, and sincere.
It is easy to speak kindly when circumstances are favourable. It is harder to act lovingly when love requires inconvenience, patience, or cost.
To love “in deed and in truth” means:
Offering help without seeking recognition.
Giving forgiveness without rehearsing the offence.
Serving quietly when no applause follows.
Such love reflects the cross — not dramatic in display, but profound in sacrifice.
The Discipline of Practical Charity
Lent sharpens our awareness of hidden motives. Do we love to be admired, or do we love because Christ first loved us?
True love flows from a heart transformed by grace. It does not calculate advantage; it seeks the good of the other.
Where love becomes practical:
Pride loosens its grip.
Self-interest diminishes.
Mercy increases.
In this way, obedience matures into compassion, and faith becomes visible in conduct.
The Witness of Authentic Love
The world is not persuaded by eloquence alone. It is persuaded by integrity.
When believers love consistently — at home, in community, in disagreement, and in trial — the Gospel gains credibility.
To abide in Christ is to become a living testimony that His love changes character and conduct.
Conclusion
On this 5th day of March, we are reminded that love must move from lips to life.
May this Lenten season train our hearts toward sincere charity — love that acts, love that perseveres, love that reflects Christ not only in devotion but in daily conduct.
Closing Prayer
Merciful Father, keep us from empty words and shallow affection. Teach us to love in deed and in truth. Let our actions bear witness to the grace we profess, and may our lives reflect the love of Christ in every place You send us. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
✍🏽 By Rev. Dr. Andrew T. Gbandeh-mitta
