Love is probably one of the most misused words in today’s vocabulary. It is used to exploit humanity’s deepest longings for possessions, position, power, and even romance. But the love Jesus invites us into is neither shallow nor dominating. Jesus’ love for us cost him his life, and it set the tone for what he asks of us: that we love one another with the same sacrificial love.
This kind of love does not ask, “What is in this for me?” rather, it asks, “What can I do for you?” Approaching any part of God’s creation with this servant-like attitude returns us to the humble reality that we are no more important than any other part of God’s creation. It makes us totally dependent on God for whatever we have.
But Jesus does not issue this command because
he wishes us to be miserable. Just as Jesus knew from experience the cost of sacrificial love, he also knew the rewards. Jesus’ love brought healing and wholeness. By obeying the Father, Jesus would have experienced the joy of seeing all he loved set free from sin, keeping us from knowing the fullness of God’s love. Now, as we remain in Jesus and become one with Jesus' love, we too can experience what it feels like to be a part of healing God’s creation. Obedience and love go together, and the
outcome is joy in collectively receiving the fullness of God’s love.
There is awe and wonder in the way God loves. God has it all: power, position, possession and yet God chooses to give love freely so that we might receive.
We are often too “busy” to give or feel the impact of special moments of love.
Choose one person
you think needs affirmation today. Pause and offer it.
Is there someone in your life whom you struggle to love?
Could you do one kind thing for that person this week, even without words?
Reflect on your day each evening this week and notice where and how God has shown you love.
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
