In this, the very briefest of all the letters in the New Testament, John's passion for truth is exceeded only by his heart of love for the church. It is not some abstract warm feeling for a concept, or an ideal, but rather a very personal and gritty affection for real people (he even names names!) dealing with real issues in a local congregation. May the Holy Spirit use it once again as a tool in our church for building healthy relationships among ourselves as fellow members of the Body of Christ.