Love is often talked about as a beautiful and wonderful feeling. It is portrayed in movies and songs as an effortless emotion that comes with no struggles or hardships. However, the reality is much different. Love takes hard work and dedication to truly understand and practice. It goes beyond surface-level gestures and platitudes and involves making commitments and sacrifices for the benefit of others. According to the teachings of our sacred text (Bible), love is not about self-promotion or selfishness but rather about putting others before ourselves and treating them with kindness and respect.
It is easy for us to say we love someone, but it is much harder to show that love consistently in our actions. It requires a level of selflessness and humility that can be daunting. Love also means accepting and embracing the imperfections and disappointments of any relationship. It means understanding that love is not just a fleeting emotion but a choice we make every day to put in the work and effort to maintain and strengthen our connections with others.
So where can we learn to love in this way?
1 John 4:19 tells us that we love because God first loved us. This love transcends time and space and is a true example of selfless and enduring love. As Christians, we are called to follow this example and spread this love to others. This requires consistent effort and a willingness to adjust and realign ourselves to make room for those we love. People have often asked me, “Why do some friendships or relationships last a lifetime while others do not.” My answer is simple. “The ability for our friendships/relationship to last is found in its willingness to endure realignments and adjustments that life brings.” If you and I ride the train home together from the city after some Christmas shopping, I may need to adjust and realign my stuff to make room for you and your stuff so we can continue to journey together.” That’s the work of love. True love is not found in moments of passion or grand gestures but in our everyday choices to prioritize and care for others. It is tough work, but the rewards of deep and meaningful relationships make it all worth it.
Christmas Blessings of Love,
Rev