Check the comments of any article, photo, video, blog post, etc. that goes viral. Look at the comments on Facebook and twitter toward famous people. If you read many at all, you will most likely encounter some of the most hate-filled, cynical, critical, and even irrational statements you could imagine. For the most extreme examples, try checking out some politically-driven discussions. It won’t take long at all to see some very classic examples.

For some, it’s a power trip to have the ability to ruffle some feathers (while hiding behind the protective cloak of digital anonymity). Others may be responding out of their own guilt, jealousy, or other feelings of inadequacy or, in the opposite direction, pride or arrogance. Still others may just find entertainment in others’ overreactions.

Regardless of the motivation behind these remarks, the all have something in common. They are selfish. They are lacking the love and compassion that we, as Christians are called to demonstrate.

Often, when we hear the word love, romance comes to mind. It’s almost to the point that we have limited the meaning of the word so much that it typically only references the fleeting emotion of passion. Sure, we tell others, such as our children, that we love them, but when asked to define the word, many will tell you it’s an emotion between two people.

Love is so much more. It’s more than hearts and candy. It’s more than romance.

Loving like Christ in social media is:

• Responding with selfless compassion, even when you don’t agree with whatever was posted.
  • Romans 12:18 “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. “
• Sharing encouraging words.
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:10-12  “He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.”
• Focusing on truth while being respectful to others (so no sarcasm, jabs, insults, etc.!!)
  • Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

With social media, your group of neighbors grows exponentially. How can you love your neighbor in your virtual interactions?

Matthew 22:36-40
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.”