The Big "Cover Up"

When you hear the phrase "cover up" what comes to mind? If you ask someone around you they may list one of the following:
* An attempt to hide criminal or immoral activity.
* An article of clothing you wear at the beach over your swimsuit.
* Make-up to cover a blemish.
But is this list really complete? Do the words "cover up" ever direct your thoughts toward the idea of love?

Over the past several days the words of 1 Peter 4:8 have been turning over and over in my mind and on several occasions finding their way into my conversations (sometimes even during committee meetings). God's Word says, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." In the previous verse (4:7) Peter calls attention to the fact that, "The end of all things is near." Knowing that our time on this earth is brief should lead all of us to make proper life changes and focus on those issues recorded in this chapter. Regarding this passage and its context Matthew Henry writes:

"Our approaching end, is a powerful argument to make us sober in all worldly matters, and earnest in religion. There are so many things amiss in all, that unless love covers, excuses, and forgives in others, the mistakes and faults for which every one needs the forbearance of others, Satan will prevail to stir up divisions and discords."[1]

So let me ask you the following: In your marriage, have you been exercising love through forgiveness? What about in your parenting, your friendships, your workplace, or even with your mother-in-law...have you been exercising love through forgiveness?

This forgiveness must also be proactive in nature. This is the example set by our Savior. The Bible makes it clear that Christ took the first step regarding our forgiveness, and in Romans 5:8 we read, "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

I am pretty sure that today you and I are going to need someone to be a little forgiving toward us. Let's be thankful that God, in Christ Jesus, has forgiven us, and with humility, gratitude, and thankfulness let's "love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins" (1 Peter 4:8).

[1] Henry, Matthew. Matthew Henry Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible. "Chapter 4" 16 Oct. 2007 <http://bible1.crosswalk.com/Commentaries/MatthewHenryConcise/mhc-con.cgi?book=1pe&chapter=4#1Pe4_7>.