On 16th November, we celebrate the International Day for Tolerance, a day dedicated to fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation for the diversity that exists in our world. While the world calls for tolerance in the face of differences, Scripture encourages something even greater: love. As Christians, we are called not just to tolerate but to actively love one another, especially those who may be different from us. John 13:34-35 reminds us, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Tolerance or Love?
In society today, tolerance is often the benchmark of decency. We are taught to “tolerate” other cultures, religions, and views, which is a step toward harmony. But for those of us who follow Christ, tolerance alone doesn’t fully align with the Gospel message. Jesus didn’t come to merely tolerate humanity—He came to love us in our brokenness, to save us from sin, and to offer us a relationship with God. That same radical love is the hallmark of a Christian life.
1 Peter 4:8 calls us to “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” Love goes beyond tolerance. Love seeks to understand, to empathise, and to walk alongside people, not just with patience but with compassion. It doesn’t simply endure others’ flaws; it extends grace and forgiveness.
What Does True Christian Love Look Like?
Jesus exemplified this love when He interacted with people society would have rejected: tax collectors, prostitutes, the sick, and the poor. His love was intentional and all-encompassing. He didn’t shy away from their brokenness; He leaned in, offering them dignity, restoration, and the promise of eternal life.
Similarly, the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) didn’t just tolerate the wounded man he found on the roadside. He loved him by taking action—caring for him and ensuring his recovery. True love requires more than mere tolerance; it demands that we act, sacrifice, and serve one another. When we embrace this kind of love, we reflect Christ in a way that simply tolerating others never could.
A Moment to Reflect with an Encouraging Action
- Reflection Question: How can I move beyond tolerance to reflect Christ’s love more deeply in my relationships?
- Action Step: Think about someone in your life who may be challenging to deal with. Rather than just tolerating them, ask God to help you love them with the same grace He has shown you. Reach out with a kind word, a prayer, or an act of service, and see how love transforms the relationship.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us so deeply, not just in words but in action. Help us to go beyond mere tolerance and to love others as You have loved us. Teach us to see people as You see them, worthy of grace, dignity, and compassion. Let our actions reflect Your heart, that the world may know we are Your disciples through our love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
