Picture every old western movie you’ve ever seen. The old, rickety town. The cowboys in the dusty saloon. And one, lone protagonist—the Sheriff and his tin star. Every law man had one: a badge. And it was the distinguishing feature of his calling.

Love is the distinctive mark of true discipleship. Like the western law man of old, love is our badge—our distinguishing mark of true allegiance to Jesus.

People can talk a good game. They can make assertions and even perform the “duties” of Christian service. But without the mark of love over it all, it is just a façade. Like an old movie set, just pretend.

And like a sheriff’s badge, love is a choice we must put on each day. We wear it. We live it. We are known by it. And that mark of love, which authenticates our true faith in Christ, is the central ingredient of our testimony of Jesus to a world who doesn’t know Him. And today, you get to choose to wear the badge again.

Reflect on how your love for others reflects your relationship with Christ. Consider the impact of genuine love within your community and how it testifies to God’s presence in your life. What does the badge you wear say to the world?