Relationships are messy.

There will always be some reason to avoid them.

The expectations we have for others are usually directly tied to the standards we prefer for ourselves. So when people fail to measure up, we find little use for them in our relational circles.

But these preferences fall short of the heart of God. He desires much more for us than just self-serving interactions. His Church is meant to be a loving community - filled with people who are unafraid and willing to go the distance with - and for - each other. And that doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges, disagreements, and even disappointments along the way. But whenever our brokenness begins to stand in the way of our commitment to each other, the gospel is readily available to remind us of one truth: That’s what love is for!