Lessons from a Love Story

I am not much of a reader.  I've never been one to be labeled a book worm.  I'm not accused of spending too much time in the library.  However, over the past year I've found myself picking up books much more often - partly thanks to a coworker who has a passion for reading good books!  Recently I finished the Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers.  Her work impresses me.  Not only because her stories are believable, but you can tell she researches her story before she writes the first sentence.  Grant it, they are works of fiction but contain a great deal of historical accuracy. 

The Mark of the Lion is a three book series about lives of individuals and families that are affected by conquests of the Roman Empire under the reign of Vespasian.  The first two books are wonderful reads about a young Jewess and the family she serves after being taken captive from Jerusalem.  The third book - happened to be my favorite - was about the life of a young German warrior and his journey home, physically and spiritually.  Reminder: These books are works of fiction!  However, I found myself caught up in the plights of the characters as they journeyed.  Here are a few things that stood out to me.

1. Stand for Truth. It isn't easy standing alone or even not knowing the outcome.  However, to dismiss Truth for convenience or security is harmful and could be very costly in the long run.

2. Serve Others. Be willing to lay your own desires and wants aside to invest in the lives of others.  I'm not talking about giving up on self to serve others but giving of self to serve others.

3. Seek God... no matter the circumstance, personal feelings or obstacles that seem to appear out of no where!  Because when we seek the Lord with all our heart we will find Him (Jer. 29:13)!

Though these books were a great read, they reminded me of what it really means to fulfill the two Greatest Commandments - first, Love God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength; and second, love your neighbor as yourself (Matt. 22:36-40)!  On a scale of 1 to 10, I need improvement on fulfilling these commandments.  I just wonder, how many Christians honestly stand for Truth, serve others and seek God.  If we did, how would our lives be different and how would the lives of those around us be affected?