Saturated in His Love

We are a dog-loving family, and though all of the dogs we’ve had have all touched our lives in unique ways, one specifically stands out when I think about unconditional love. We adopted Buddy from Animal Friends, a no-kill shelter that our daughter and I volunteered at. Buddy was a mutt, a mix of shepherd and lab. He had the cutest personality and a heart full of love.

Throughout his 17 years, he gave us great joy and steady love. He was my constant companion, following me everywhere with unwavering loyalty, affection, and enthusiasm. He simply loved us because we were his, and he knew he belonged to us.

And yet, as faithful and deep as a dog’s love may be, it pales in comparison to God’s love. God’s love is greater than life itself. At no time does God say, “I love you whenever it's convenient, or I love you when you're good”.

He saturates us in his love through the power of the Holy Spirit and shows us that this love was extended to us even when we were unworthy — it is not based on what we can offer but who he is. His love is constant, sacrificial, and always aiming to bring about eternal good for his children. His love never varies and far exceeds any other type of love because God IS love.

Unlike the affection of even the most loyal pet, God’s love never fades or forgets, and he surrounds us with unshakable security as his children. I am reminded of what St. Augustine wrote in his Confessions: “God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.” We can trust the One who loves us completely and individually. Our Lord sees you, knows you, and loves you with his whole heart, and his love is lavish and freely given because we belong to him.

Dear Jesus, thank you for your unconditional love for your children. We always come up short when trying to deserve your love; help us accept it and embrace your relentless and everlasting love. Thank you that we do not have to do anything extraordinary to earn your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Throughout this Day: Listen to the inspiring song “Love of God

” by Brandon Lake and Phil Wickham.