What is Love?
When we ponder the word “love,” what images or thoughts come to mind? Is love merely a physical thing, an emotion that we feel, or a conscious decision we make? Perhaps it’s all three intertwined. There’s a saying that love is more than just a feeling; it’s action in motion. In essence, it’s not enough to talk about love; we must demonstrate it through our actions.
But how do we give something as profound as love when we can’t even fully explain it? And how do we explain a concept that often eludes our understanding? These questions lead us to reflect on the essence of love itself.
One book that delves deeply into the subject is “The 5 Love Languages.” This insightful read sheds light on how individuals express and receive love in different ways, offering a new perspective on the complexity of love.
In 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the “love chapter,” we find a profound biblical definition of love. It teaches us that pure love is unconditional and without strings attached. Yet, it also highlights that our actions have consequences, even in God’s unconditional love for us. This paradox challenges us to contemplate the depth and nature of true love.
We see examples of this complexity in everyday life. A parent may work tirelessly, taking on multiple jobs out of love for their child, yet the child may interpret this as neglect because of the lack of quality time spent together. This highlights the need for a deeper understanding of love and its various expressions.
Love, at its core, is about partnership and complementing each other’s weaknesses. It’s about giving 100% of ourselves while also setting boundaries that foster growth and respect. Love demands that we put ourselves in the other person’s shoes, seeking to understand before seeking to be understood. Love can sometimes be tough, like a mother eagle pushing her eaglet out of the nest to teach it to fly. Sometimes, things are withheld from us for our own growth and development.
Just as we would learn a new language to communicate effectively, we must also learn and understand each other’s love languages. This is crucial for meaningful communication and connection in relationships.
Ultimately, love is about seeking the best for others, walking in their shoes, and giving of ourselves. It’s about adding value to the lives of others, whether in our relationships, our work, or our community. The evidence of love is not in what we receive, but in what we give. So let’s strive to love deeply, passionately, and fervently, seeking the best for others as we walk this journey of faith together.
Romans 13:8-10 reminds us to owe nothing to anyone except to love and seek the best for them. Let’s strive to love our neighbors as ourselves, seeking to build up and not tear down, to add value and not just receive it. This is the love that transforms lives and brings light into the world.
