LOVE

Christianity is the evidence that love is the most powerful force in the universe. The Christian love ‘agape’ is sacrificial love shown to us by God. It is not partial nor self-seeking. It is unconditional. It gives, sacrifices, and expects nothing in return. Our lives as Christians must be based on love.

And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this, you shall love your neighbour as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.

Mark 12:30-31

Christian love is not determined by how we feel, or based on circumstances, it is a lifestyle. It is a selfless and giving love. 1 John 4:8 says ‘he who does not love does not know God, for God is love’.

The relationship with the opposite sex and other relationships which advance people’s social positions are not viewed as Christian love. Rather, Christian love is manifested in the concept of the Trinity and describes the essence of who God is. The word of God commands us to emulate God’s love who sacrificed His son for us in spite of our rebellion. Loving God and one another requires a strong commitment and maturity. Self interest is sacrificed in love and there is joy in bringing life and wanting the best for the loved one.

Love has an unlimited reach. Let us turn away from being self-centered and focus on exemplifying the image of God in which He made us. God loves us. Let us return the love to Him and to the people we encounter daily.