Necessity of Love

Is it easy to love? Not really! This four-letter word has multiple meanings in our culture, possibly because our predisposition as humans is to interpret it based on our emotions, and occasionally even to suit our selfish aspirations. Knowing the author of love intimately makes us love better because the concept of love was created by God, not by men.

This kind of love is not seasonal; we are called to love at all times, in and out of season. The understanding that it is not easy to love as Christ would desire, helps us to rely on his power and understanding so that we can see past appearances and reach a person's core. This then would help us to be grateful for what we have and to create enduring memories with the individuals God places in our path.

We tend to love more when we are shown the same emotion in return. But there are those in our midst who have experienced all sorts of atrocities committed against them and their loved ones, and find it extremely hard to love. Sadly because of past pains, only bitterness and unforgiveness reside in their hearts. Maybe you are even one of them. You know what? Our God can reach into the deepest part of your being and minister peace and healing, if you allow him to.

Christ commanded his disciples to love each other. Are we exempted from this command? Certainly not! In fact Jesus said that people would recognize his followers, by their love for each other. (John 13:34-35) This kind of love means that we daily strive to live out 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 in our interactions with one another. Only when we let God, through his Holy Spirit, teach us how, is it feasible.

Heavenly Father, teach me to emulate Christ’s love to the people in my life and especially the believers around me. May I be reminded of this truth to love as you have loved. Amen.

Throughout this Day: Are you having trouble loving because of the hurt you or your loved ones have endured in the past? Are you struggling with unforgiveness? Please seek assistance; Jesus is a very present help. Express your feelings to him, and allow him to mend your broken heart and bring back your joy and peace.