Loyalty

 To be loyal to ones friends and principles is to be honorable in all things.  To be dear to the good things, which may be found in principles that are held together through life is to hold dear to the friendships and love and not be tempted away by other opportunities that appear on one’s horizons.  It is what comes first that one holds onto and will not easily change to something else.  It was Peter, who was disloyal to Jesus in denying him three times on that fateful night, when he was betrayed by Judas Iscariot.  Disloyalty is a very strong negative to loyalty.

 Love is the stronger for having loyalty, as one remains true to first expressions of declaring one’s self to keep the honor of that love, even if tempted by another.  Sometimes lovers have to part by having to be away in another country or at University, but the loyalty has to hold firm and true.  To give one’s support to a team, one can remain loyal to one’s first choice, in spite being among others who support another club or team.  Many will remain loyal to their roots, even when they move into higher and often better conditions.  However, one can be loyal and still help others, who feel in need despite being on a different track or beginnings. 

 One can remain loyal to God, even in the company of heathens or barbarians and it will matter not how much one maybe teased or even bullied, one will never let this love be replaced or despoiled by others.  The disciples were loyal to Jesus who loved them all, even though he was aware of their weaknesses.  He chose them for their individual goodness.  All had a part to play in the future of his teaching and healing.  They were amazed by him and how he loved everybody, even those who they felt were beneath him like the tax collectors.

 When Jesus was taken away on that dark night, they soon scattered.  Their loyalties were questioned and found wanting.  They saw him judged, scourged and crucified.  He was taken down from the cross to be buried. They didn’t yet understand his teachings that he would rise from the dead.  They still loved Jesus but didn’t have the true understanding, as they were frightened by the Jews and the Romans.  As they waited not knowing what to do, Mary Madelaine brought the news that she had seen and spoken with their Master and that he would come amongst them, so that they could go out and prove their loyalty and preach the good news.

 Monday, 25^th January 2021