Love!

The Valentines shown in the picture were made by several generations of mothers and grandmothers. I am taking a moment to remember their love for their families. For those reading this blog, what are fond memories of love you received from family, friends, or even strangers? What fond memories do you have of sharing your love with others? What about those folks that were not raised in households with love?

Here is the good news! Whether you grew up and even now are surrounded by love or whether that is a bit more elusive for you, God is constant and abiding in His love for all of us. What a gift to think about as we recognize Valentine’s Day!

From the Bible:
I Corinthians 13: 4-7, 13
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

Wow! These are simple words to read, but certainly a “tall order” on how to act toward others each day. The word for love used here is agape, which is unconditional love. How can we strive to show this kind of love to our family, friends, neighbors, and even strangers? How can we be open to receive God’s love through others?

These are powerful words to strive for in our actions. Sometimes these actions can only be carried out by starting with small steps. Being patient today. Next time when we feel envious, to just shut that thought down. Next time when we are truly boasting (not just sharing a good thing) or rude, may we understand our action, ask forgiveness, and next time try again to act with more compassion.

As the Scripture says, the greatest of these is love, but I do think through faith and hope we can continue on a journey of striving to be patient, kind, encouraging, humble, rejoicing, protecting, trusting, hoping, and persevering. For some, this will be easier to carry out, but for others, this could be a struggle. We are not perfect people.

But, as we strive for living this way, there is this promise of God to us: Remember, God will be with us each step of the way, showing us and guiding us with His unconditional love that never ends! Another promise of God that we can claim! What joy!

Happy February and Happy Valentine’s Day!

In Christ,
Debbie