Even in the innocence of childhood we wondered about and desired to be liked or better yet, LOVED. It's an inherent or innate desire; we're created in God's image. And looking through those same kid goggles: we would check yes, regardless of who it was on the asking end (qualifications differing for everyone). Then we would like/love that person...until.
UNTIL they didn't play the game we desired or played with different rules that didn't work in our favor.
UNTIL they said something with the wrong attitude.
UNTIL they didn't do what we asked or wanted them to do.
UNTIL. UNTIL. UNTIL.
And as we grew. it's still how like (even love) presents in the world due to our humanly flawed views of it. It lasts...until.
UNTIL we get tired of the same ol' same ol'.
UNTIL we disagree.
UNTIL feelings change.
UNTIL. UNTIL. UNTIL.
Love, as we oftentimes experience and express it, has boundaries operating based on contingencies. Contingent upon someone or something. Contingent on how a person feels. Dependent on circumstances. And through this limited form of love, we can back out at any time, call it quits - and that so-called love ends just like that.
It's fluid - flowing even more inconsistent to us than the wind. It grinds my gears to think about the deception and false senses and understanding of "love" lived out there because well, I used to believe and accept it, too... UNTIL... I met real Love. BUT GOD! I'm grateful the love of God - true love - reaches depths and extends well-beyond all of those things formerly expressed. But don't just take my word for it, grab your Bible(s), and let's see what scripture says!
But first, do yourselves and me a favor, if you will. Lay down any preconceptions you have about love - at least as you journey with me. Upon finishing, if you so choose, you may pick back up your baggage and continue on your way. But the hope is that when we're done, you'll want to carry it no longer. Ready? Let's go!
Scripture Reading:
1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Mark 12:29-20
Scripture References:
1 John 4:16
1 Timothy 3:16
Isaiah 5:20
Matthew 21:7-9
Revelation 19
Deuteronomy 6:4-5
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