Love is…
I’ve finished writing the piece, but still sat reflecting on it for a long while. For one reason or another I couldn’t move on to the next one. Then I suddenly noticed it. Although the word “love” does not appear anywhere in this piece of Scripture, this is what it is all about. In a way, all that is written here is the result or expression of love.
I reread the Scripture again and the following acts of love stand out:
Love is…
- to not only say things that make me look good
- not to deceive others
- to have God as my witness
- when God knows your heart
- not to look for the recognition of people
- not to misuse your authority
- not to be angry
- to take good care of others
- to give to others like a mother breastfeeding her child
- to share God’s message with others
- to be prepared to sacrifice your life for others
- to love others with all of your heart
- to work hard
- to make sacrifices
- not to be a financial burden on others
- to share the good news of God with others
- not to put a foot wrong
- to do everything God expects of us
- not to treat others badly
- to speak nicely to others
- to encourage others to do the right thing
- to plead with others to glorify God in all that they do or say.
That is love!
It’s all lovely, but the real question is: “How much of this is part of how you act throughout the day?”
These beautiful words about love will stay right here on paper if we do not have a constructive plan to live that way in the world. Choose one or more and decide today to live like that somewhere today, tomorrow and the rest of the week, so that in a way, others can experience God’s love.
Scripture
Reflection
Do others see love in the way you live?
What can you do to make love part of your life?
Prayer
Lord, I realise that the world needs much, much more love. Even where I move around, people need it. I know You want to use me there. Please teach me to act in love everywhere I go. Amen.
