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One of the most imporant things that impacted my dad’s early life happened when he was an unambitious high schooler. An english teacher asked the question, “What is love?” It was the first time that an authority figure asked my dad an open ended question with the purpose of creating an open and honest dialogue. Is it a noun? A verb? Is it real or theoretical? Now, even though he didn’t participate in the discussion out of pure shyness, the question stuck with him for years – What is love?
Today, one of my dad’s favorite songs is Misty Edward’s “Arms Wide Open”. Especially when she ponders, “what does love look like?” and then discovers that it looks like God and what He has done for us from the beginning of time. The image of Christ on the cross – fully exposed – is not just an iconic reference to hang in cathedrals, but an example of how we should keep ourselves – our hearts – openly exposed to God and His will for our lives.
But still, what do the words, “I love…” mean? The definition of love is rooted in exposure, trust and commitment. It’s not an emotion or temporary feeling. True love grows from a foundation much more solid and lasting.
What bout when things get rough? When we are hurt and question what life – and even God – is all about? Do we trust Him in the midst of our hurt? We may not want to, but we do out of our growing love. The same applies to loving people. And when we include God in our love of people, it becomes easier and easier each day.