February. A month devoted to love.
When I was in grade school, I remember clutching the wrapped
shoebox under my arm as I rode the bus to school. It was carefully decorated
and would serve as a mailbox during the class Valentine's party. I secretly
hoped I would receive a card from a special someone. Among the many cards I got
that day, I saved that one, and read it over and over again.
To this day, I still save cards. The ones from my husband
are especially precious. His love for me is evident in the sweet words he pens.
The same is true of the love letter written to me by my Heavenly Father. The
Bible contains countless verses testifying to the unconditional love of my
Savior. Among my favorites, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his
only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have
everlasting life," (John 3:16; KJV). A familiar verse, no doubt. But read
it carefully. Because God loved, what did He do? He gave.
True love is about giving. Not a very popular concept in today's
world, where love is easily confused with lust.
Two four-letter words with very different meanings. Lust involves
getting. Love involves giving. Giving without expecting anything in return. It
is characterized as patient, kind, and trusting. Love is absent of jealousy,
pride, and resentment (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
Consider the love of a King. The King of the universe who
loved His creation so much that He left His throne in heaven to become a lowly
man. He lived a sinless life, then willingly died on a cross, shedding His
blood to pay the sin debt of all mankind. What an amazing love!
God continues to offer His gift of love to anyone who will
receive it. Simply realize you are a sinner, understand that Christ paid your
sin debt, and accept Him as your Savior. Are you willing to receive His gift of
love? Once you have, spend time getting to know Him. The Bible is one love
letter you'll never tire of reading!
Prayer: Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your unconditional love. Help me to love without expecting
anything in return. Thank You for the Bible, Your love letter to me. As I read
and study Your Word, help me to become more like You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
