A service station should provide what its name implies. Yet gas stations that offer free service seem to be a thing of the past.

In an article for the Detroit Free Press, Ellen Warren asked, "Can we get service at a service station?" She wasn't talking merely about nostalgia but about basic services such as free air, clean and accessible restrooms, and road maps (at least ones to look at).

Warren located one station that did live up to its name, however. A sign out in front read: "Last and only gas station that offers FREE air and water, cold drinking water, clean restrooms, towels and hand fresheners, fuel gloves, travel information. Always open."

Expecting love from Christians should be just as reasonable as expecting service from a service station. The Thessalonians had been "taught by God to love one another" (1 Thessalonians 4:9), so Paul said he didn't need to write them about brotherly love. And Jesus told His disciples that love would identify them as His followers (John 13:35).

A service station without service is a contradiction. So is a Christian without love! Having received God's love (Romans 5:5) and being assured of it daily, let's show His love to others.  —MRD II  — Mart De Haan