1 John 4:8 “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” Words from this sonnet written by Elizabeth Barrett Browning for her husband popped into my head this morning. Love. Who but a God of love could think up such an outlandish, exquisite, sublime entity?
God gives us love so strong that in marriage it transforms two separate beings—a man and woman—into one (Mark 10:8). Marital love differs from every other love on earth in its uniqueness, completeness and opportunity for lifelong companionship. Who knew that the guy who picked me up hitchhiking 46 years ago would end up being my dearest companion in life’s travels? God knew. He must have been smiling that day on the outskirts of the Grand Canyon as I stood with my thumb out.
And how about that tenacious love mothers and fathers have for their children. Who knew when I gave birth to my kids it would usher me into a beautiful dying to my own (often) self-centered agenda and expand my capacity for affection like nothing I’d ever experienced? God knew. And I think he’s still smiling, as I’m still releasing them.
The greatest joys in my life come in one form of love or another. Through the love I experience for my extended family and friends, but also through the pleasantries I discover in what I see, hear, touch, smell and taste. I find love through the satisfaction I find in my work. In creativity, in beauty, even in my sorrows.
None of this would be possible without the love of God. Scripture tells us God is love. When we love, we get a glimpse of him. “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us” (1 John 4:12).
So…. How do I love Thee?
I can only begin to count the ways, because you, Lord, have given me so much. I love you because you made me. Because you offered me a second birth. I love you because you bring good out of my messes and aren’t scared off by my petty, selfish relapses. I love you because of the Cross. Because of eternal life.
How about you? Are you counting the ways you love the lover of your soul?