Relationships are one of our deepest desires—whether it’s friendships, romantic connections, or family bonds. We all long for relationships where we feel fully known and fully loved. Yet, those same relationships often become the source of our greatest frustrations. We’ve all experienced moments of disappointment in people we trusted. It feels like this deep, intrinsic need for connection is constantly met with conflict or misunderstanding.

But there’s hope in the gospel. The brokenness in our relationships isn’t new. When Jesus came into this world, He entered a culture marked by division and broken relationships. Yet His mission was to build a new family, a new community, that would model something different. The way we treat one another—our kindness, patience, humility, and forgiveness—becomes a window through which others can see the heart of Christ.

The truth is, relationships are one of the greatest opportunities we have to demonstrate the gospel. When we show compassion to someone who doesn’t deserve it, or we forgive a hurt that feels too deep to let go of, we mirror God’s grace to us. It’s not easy—sometimes it feels impossible—but that’s why Paul reminds us that God’s love for us isn’t based on how well we live out these virtues. It’s rooted in our identity in Christ. And because of that, we have the power to love others even when it’s hard.

The challenge for us is to let our relationships reflect the love of Christ so that those around us catch a glimpse of Him through us.

Reflection Questions

1. How can you demonstrate compassion and kindness to someone who has hurt or disappointed you recently?
2. In what ways do you find it difficult to forgive others, and how can remembering God’s forgiveness of you help shift your perspective?
3. How might your relationships be a window through which others can see the love of Christ? How can you better reflect His love in your interactions?

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