The mission of Bethlehem is to “Love God, Serve People.” We cannot do one without the other! If we say we love God and do not love people, then our love is not really true. God calls us to love one another. In that way, we show our love for Him. Being able to love even those who do not love us, is a mandate from God. It is not an option, it is a requirement: Love thy neighbor as thyself, love those who despitefully use you. How can we say we love God and not love those we see every day? Love is at the heart of God and love and service go together.
Our Scripture reference, Psalm 18:1 reads in this manner:

“I love you, Lord; you are my strength.”

Here, the psalmist begins this song by acknowledging his love for God being his strength. He thanks God for keeping him from his enemies. He does not have a heart of hate even for his enemies, but his heart is filled with the love of God. He gives God praise for all God has done for him. His love for God is so deep that it extends to those who tried to hurt him. God is his refuge and strength, a very present help in the time of trouble. Thus, he is committed to love God and love others. You cannot forget the grace and mercy of God you have received. You must be willing to share them with others. If you were writing your life story, what would it say? Would you express love to God and love to others? When you say you love God, be able also to say you love and serve people.