We love, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19, TLV
Loving Examples. Another drop-the-mic verse. We learn how to love because we have the perfect example, Yeshua — Jesus. But are there other examples of a perfect love? What about missionaries who leave the comforts of modern conveniences, and journey to places where there is no clean running water — or toilets?
Or those who choose to pastor flocks in areas of high crime? We know enough stories of how both have given their lives for this work.
Then there are those around us who exhibit a selfless love that is demonstrated in simple ways — ways we barely notice, much less acknowledge. Things like helping to bring in the groceries. A hug and kiss for no reason. The laughter of a child who crawls into your lap when you are grieving and hunger for joy.
An interesting book club
Several years ago, I attended a monthly book club. I loved this group. Sometimes our leader asked questions that sent us in directions that were spiritually powerful. One meeting, we talked about how we don’t gather to pray for one another as we did before. We don’t take time to be in a moment — a moment of prayer, gratitude, grief, love. We’re so busy going from one thing to the next, barely acknowledging an answered prayer, deep mourning, a beautiful sunrise or sunset, a kiss or hug (or loving fist-bump).
We love because He first loved us, but . . .
Yeshua loved on the multitudes, but because, well, let’s face it, humanity is exhausting to be around, He got away to connect with His Dad and get loved-on Himself. For those sweet souls who give so selflessly, like our Messiah, please remember to get away from time to time, and let your Father and your family love on you. It’s okay to be in a moment of beauty, joy, love, laughter and enjoy it. In fact, it follows our Messiah’s example.
Thanks for this moment.
Terri, in 2 days I’ll be 82. You, my young friend (you’re young to me) have taught me something new. I, too, have used the words interchangeably. They’re both good words to describe someone, right? From this day forward, I will really think about these two words whenever I am describing someone. Probably like you, I have known hundreds of people that were nice but just how many of these were also kind. I think if we stop and really think about it, unfortunately the nice people are far more in number. And yet, it’s the kind people that stick in our memory. Thank you for this simple, but oh so meaningful lesson.
Happy early birthday, Patricia! By the way, we’re not that far apart in age, but I’ll take the “young friend” compliment. =) Once the LORD showed me that different it helped me understand relationships–my part, as well as theirs. Every time I think about this revelation, He unpacks even more insights. As my grandmother used to say, “It’s one to chew on.”
Thank you for your kind words of encouragement, Patricia! God bless you!