Love is an intense feeling of affection and cares towards another person. The English dictionary defines it as a deep or abiding liking for something—a profound and caring attraction towards someone. Note the appearance of care and affection in all the definitions.
Let’s read from the Bible to get a clearer picture of what love suggests. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8, New International Version (NIV)
4 Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy; it does not boast; it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others; it is not self-seeking; it is not easily angered; it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
Wow. That is self-explained. What I can make of these verses is that love is selflessness. It is forgiveness in the greatest of wrongs (for instance, love from Mandela’s experience) and a gift that can turn situations around. Let’s assume the whole world has this kind of love. How do you think the Earth will look like? When we forgive freely, we love; when we are selfless in service, we love. If you are selfless, then you are humble. A loving person prefers peace because he won’t stand violence, which may destroy what he loves. Love perseveres; love is not proud. Kindness is one of the highest forms of Love. Same with compassion and diligence (lovingly working hard in the things you do). So you can see the connections between great virtues and love. Is it not said that Love is the greatest of all?
Let love flow like a stream. Let it feed, water, cloth, and bless the land around you. Nothing matters more.
Tell someone you love him/her today. Prove it, too, by being kind and showing affection. Let me start with you; I love you!
Good morning from West Africa.
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