Deeper Love is Divine
written by: Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. ”
We Christians are unaware of our power. We do not even recognize it as power. This power is “love.” Love can overcome adversity and find joy even in the most challenging circumstances. As people of faith, love is at the center of our being. Sadly, we throw the term around so lightly and misinterpret it so readily; love has become a listless afterthought.
Miroslav Volf, in his book Against the Tide, reminds us that we are created “…in the image of God who is love, we can live genuinely flourishing lives only when we also love-love God with all our being and love our neighbors as ourselves.” Just like moments when we are unlovable but still cry out for love, so are we called to reach out to the unlovable when they cry out to us. It is easier said than done.
Love is so powerful we are incapable of sustaining it on our own. The only way to remain loving amid a world that often cheapens it, is to reach out and accept the Divine love that God offers each one of us. This Divine love is powerful because, according to Dr. Volf, “love is not a warm feeling,” but a foundation of life formed by God and sustained by empathy and compassion. Volf continues, “At its core, love is not a feeling at all, but an action, a way of being, in active care for others-for integrity of their bodies and souls, as well as for their flourishing.”
Today, prayerfully reflect on your level of love. Consider the ways you include God in the love you express. With bravery and honesty, reflect on the moments where your love has fallen short. Ask God to provide the wisdom to enhance your divine understanding with integrity and compassion. As you work on your ability to love divinely, focus on recognizing the changes that take place in your life and the relationships with those around you.
