. . . Can it be all we need is love?
What if living love really can change the world?
Debated by theologians, scholars, songwriters, and eternal dreamers like me, the enormity of this question might elude even the elect—if that were possible. People are intrigued by the latest ‘How To’ books on the subject (and a million other subjects), full of lists, journaling sections, and tons of answers, but none necessarily hit the mark. After all, everything is subjective, especially these days. But, what if the mystery of living in the heart of love transcends the bliss of physical or emotional splendor by a trillion miles, or even light-years?
What’s so mysterious?
I can imagine a few eyes rolling right about now, so let me clarify. Yes. I’m talking about the kind of love that’s everlasting. But, oftentimes, even the words “until forever” hurt more than anything we’ll ever endure.
I’m reminded of how the trickle-down effects of selflessness, patience, kindness, and faithfulness, instead of selfishness, impatience, and unfaithfulness, can change lives for the better. There’s no magic formula or reasoning, but there is evidence.
It comes from living and giving and touching lives—And yes, all these actions meld within the power of our words. The mystery lies in the power of speaking light instead of darkness.
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. ~ John 13:34-35 ESV
Love one another?
The words: Love one another can change us, and the world—but we live in a world where belief in such simplicity isn’t popular. It’s more like absurd.
In all truth, through life’s joys and trials, I’ve come to know a deeper (and yes, more painful) love of family and friends.
We are not always united.
Dreary as that sounds, it’s true. But love isn’t always contingent on unity. However, love can and will thrive even in diversity if we raise our eyes to heaven and seek to learn how to love as Jesus first loved us.
Unconditionally.
This type of love has supernatural power. And yes, it’s enough to produce unity. If we let it. If we endure.
In His love.
Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. ~ Colossians 3:13-14 ESV
And let’s not forget…
Sometimes, trying to love in our own accord might backfire and change us for the worse. There’s another reason I pray to keep seeking understanding and hope to always remember the fundamental Biblical actions of Agape (unconditional) love.
Selflessness. Patience. Kindness. Serving. But wait. Love them? Always? Even if they annoy us? Ugh. Everyone knows most people can’t stand being around anyone with views different from their own.
I can only imagine Jesus shaking his head and saying, “Uh, I had envisioned this a little differently. Let’s try that again.”
“Unconditional love does not judge; it does not demand; it simply exists to lift, to heal, and to empower.” ~ HappilyLover
The enormity and honesty of God’s love
I believe in the enormity and honesty of the love God has for the world. He alone is the light that guides me. Even when I waver or don’t want or deserve a flashlight. Above him, there is no greater love. None other more steadfast.
Because steadfast is unwavering.
Living and learning
While searching throughout the Bible, we see countless examples (Sometimes I call them clues) of why Jesus is the heart of love, but have you ever wondered about the depth of His love while we live not-so-perfect lives in a not-so-perfect world?
Frustration, anger, pain, or sorrow compete with joy and singing every day. Right? I believe it’s a matter of faith, trust, transparency, and truth—but that’s another story for another day.
Today we can love freely because Jesus first lived His love for us long ago.
His actions spoke volumes—especially when His words were silenced. Jesus’s love for all humanity—and all creation, has mysteriously endured like no other’s and will go on.
Forevermore.
Other prophets or deities are revered for their beautiful, peaceful teachings. I respect them, knowing none laid down their lives for my or your sins. None rose from the grave.
The mystery of living in the heart of love is Jesus. There is no comparison.
Period.
*Thank you, Dennis, for the reminder. A word I frequently use, ‘period’, is perfect for this example. Lol.
Now I’m no sleuth, but I have to say, “case closed.”
Dear friends,
Have you ever wondered how God’s love compares or contrasts with earthly relationships? I believe God’s love is all around us. It’s part of us. That means He is with us in every season. Frigid of stifling. In good times and bad.
What if finding clues to the mysteries of God’s heart goes beyond human understanding and lies solely in knowing this unseen Giver of not only eternity but eternal love, too? I’d love to hear your thoughts here in the Inspire a Fire comments section below.
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Wishing you much love on your journey.
~ Joann
Special thanks to Pixabay for use of all free images under Pixabay content license: Feature Image by rony michaud from Pixabay , #1 Image by JessBailyDesign , #2 Marys_fotos (Image by 💌🌸🌷Marion 🌷🌸💌 Wellmann from Pixabay), #3 Image by NoName_13 from Pixabay,
