“And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold” (Matt. 24:12).
The old man’s eyes were fixed on the ground directly in front of his shoes. He leaned unsteadily on his cane and moved slowly, inch by inch into the busy street as cars continued to whir past. As he made his way further into the road, some drivers blared their horns, but none stopped to let him pass. Though many people strolled along the roadside, no one bothered to help the old man cross safely.
It’s not hard to notice that cold hearts are multiplying globally. As distressing as this is, we shouldn’t be taken by surprise or left in despair. After all, Jesus warned His followers that it would be one of the signs that His return was very near.
At the same time, though, some hearts are warming, often in response to observing kindness in someone else. The verse above says that the cause of cold hearts is abounding lawlessness. Jesus summed up the law of God into two great commandments: love God, and love others. While lack of love can infect others with coldness, obedience to the law of love can have the opposite effect. It’s actually quite contagious!
As soon as Sean saw the old man attempting to cross the street, he rushed out with arms waving and stopped traffic. Some drivers seemed agitated at first, but then they softened. A bystander soon stepped forward and took the old man’s arm. Others applauded when he made it to the other side. A bus driver leaned out of his window, waving and yelling, “Bravo!” The attitude of the crowd had gone from indifference to annoyance to caring in a few moments. Imagine how much power each individual has to influence others who have become cold and indifferent. By just mingling with people and caring about their needs as Christ did, many hearts will open to hear and respond to the Gospel.

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