True Love

I went to the wedding of my friend this past weekend. It was beautiful, she was beautiful, and I was reminded of what loving someone really means. The pastor read the familiar 1Corinthians 13:4-8, that I have heard many times before, especially at weddings. However, this time it really hit home, giving me a fresh perspective on how to love my husband and children with true love,as defined by God himself. So I decided to jot down a few things that came to mind as I heard, again, how to make love an action, not just a word or feeling. Each piece of the puzzle alone is wonderful, but when put together creates God's masterpiece...so important to Him that it is the greatest commandment...to love him, and love others. I pray that I can put love into action, and by doing that, become more like Christ.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (New International Version)
4Love is patient,when the kids get out of bed for the 100th time...in one night! Love is kind, even when others are not. It does not envy time spent away from home, or the seemingly unfair amounts of hobbies... it does not boast,even when it would be nice to remind him that you have done the dishes, cleaned the house, and changed diapers way more often than he has. It is not proud, readily admitting wrong doing, and seeking forgiveness. 5It is not rude,even when that sweet man you married asks you why the laundry isn't done, or if you need a bigger sink to house all of the dirty dishes! It is not self-seeking,but goes out of its way to find ways to serve them, making their day go smoothly, without expecting the same in return. It is not easily angered, especially over silly things like a messy room or short attention spans. it keeps no record of wrongs.but forgives easily, wholeheartedly, with abandon 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects,not just physically, but emotionally. Always trusts,even when not trustworthy always hopes,looking for the absolute best, bringing out the best qualities. Always perseveres through moves, children, financial difficulty, tantrums, stages, and spiritual dryness to name a few. Love never fails. The perfect love of Christ, that He has graciously extended to us, is ours to share with the World, starting in our own homes.

I can only hope to be the kind of mother and wife that can exemplify true love to my family. There are times when I am unlovely...yet I am still so loved by the God who created me, and also by my husband, and wonderful girls. Change me, Oh God...help me to really love my family the way You, Lord, have loved me.