We hear the word “love” everyday, whether referencing love for spouses, children, friends or food.  Many things we love, but what exactly is love, and do we really exhibit that love?

Love is probably the most used and abused word in the English language.

God’s love for man was exhibited in sending His only Son to die for mankind’s sin.  It was the most giving, unselfish, loving, caring of mankind ever known.

For God  so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”     John 3:16

Man’s love for God is in his obedience to Him.

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments:  and His commandments are not grievous.”  I John 5:3

We are to love our fellow man.

“Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  This is the first and great commandment.   And the second is like unto it.  Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”      Matthew 22:37-40

This lesson came to mind when I called my son for help in understanding certain features regarding my computer.  I try never to bother him, for he is married and teaches numerous classes at a college.  He always fits me into his schedule when he is able.  I can’t remember a time when he has not sent a message asking me if I am alright, or if I need anything.  When he is able, he drops what he is doing and comes to my aid.  He exhibits a true love by his actions.  He never fails to tell me he loves me.

One of the most loving, tender and caring acts among many our Lord did while on earth, was showing His love for His earthly mother, as He hung upon the cross.  His mother stood near the cross as she watched her Son die.  Her heart hurting, torn apart by seeing the madness of the Jews screaming for the execution of the One who was innocent, must have wounded her heart terribly.  How many thoughts may have gone through her mind on that eventful day.  From His birth to His death, she was there, showing her love and devotion for Him.

“Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.   When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple standing by, whom He loved, He saith unto His mother, Woman, behold thy Son.  Then saith He to the disciple, Behold thy mother!  And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.      John 19:25-27

Love is a verb, but I believe it may be even more than just action.  It is the emptying of one’s self for another’s good.  This is the kind of love God had for man.  This is the kind of love Jesus had for us, and this is the kind of love we should have as well.

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.”    I Corinthians 13:1

“Love stops the cooking to hug the child.
Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the spouse;
Love is kind though harried and tired.
Love is not envy of another’s home
That has coordinated china and table linens.
Love does not yell at the kids to get out of the way,
But is thankful they are there to be in the way.

Eileen Light