From today's epistle reading:

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. (Ephesians 5:1-2, NLT)

These verses caught my attention this morning. Simple yet profound. Paul directs us to follow God's example, especially in love. Christ is our example as He loved perfectly.  

What would this kind of love look like demonstrated in regular, daily life? After all, all this talk of love is great but let's get a bit more practical. What does it look like in regular ol' life? We find some good examples in the verses that follow:

• "Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you." Paul sets a high standard here which inevitably reminds us that we are all sinners in need of mercy and forgiveness. We certainly haven't "arrived" in our own journey of transformation which is a good thing to keep in mind.
• Avoid "obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes". Instead, let there be "thankfulness to God." How about we offer some words of encouragement to those around us each day? That might be one of the best ways to live a life of love.
• Don't be greedy. There's already enough of that to go around. Remember that people matter more than things.
• Do what is "good and right and true." That sounds a bit vague but I think we'd be safe in saying "live like Jesus." Be compassionate. Show mercy. Offer forgiveness. Reach out to the poor and lowly. (Feel free to add some more to this list).

So, those are a few of my thoughts on today's epistle reading. Feel free to add your own in the comments.

Pax.