Thursday Thought Reflecting God’s Love …
A recent conversation I had with my son-in-law intersected with another communication with a friend about how we reflect God’s love. I hope you’ll join me for some insights I think you might appreciate ...
"When you know how much God is in love with you, then you can only live your life radiating that love." - Mother Teresa
On Father’s Day, following a delicious dinner, I had a meaning-filled discussion with my son-in-law about his beloved dad who passed away (all too soon according to my limited understanding) three years ago tomorrow.
Brandon’s dad was diligent and deliberate about his roles as a Christ-follower, educator, citizen, husband, and especially father. He truly was his son’s hero. As we chatted in their beautiful backyard, standing somewhere between the hot tub and Blackstone grill, my son-in-law speculated about how his dad may have responded to a “hypothetical” rebellious choice Brandon could have made when he went away to college. He was quick to tell me, however, that he never even considered it. Then he wondered out loud, saying he wasn’t even sure why he never had a deep desire to rebel against his dad.
After we returned home, I kept mulling over this conversation. Before I went to bed, I messaged Brandon a couple thoughts. “I imagine,” my message began, “your dad would have been a bit upset [about the “hypothetical” rebellion], and then, he would have probably tried to explore what was going on in your heart that caused you to make the choice you made. But despite his disappointment, you knew he NEVER would have stopped loving you.”
“In many ways,” I continued, “that is a reflection of how God loves us. Deep, authentic love and acceptance—even when I know I have messed up bigtime—is hard to resist.”
Colossians 1:15 says Jesus was the “visible image of the invisible God.” I imagine that’s why when certain people I read about in the Gospels encountered Jesus, they were immediately and forever changed.
Grasping the “perfect” love God has for His children is powerful. John said of this profound and ancient truth, "Perfect love casts out fear." 1 John 4:18
New Testament scriptures challenge believers to reflect Jesus. For example, Ephesians 5:1-2 says, “… as dearly loved children walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us..." and Philippians 2:5 counsels, "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus."
Brandon was fortunate to see this type of love in his father, a fine but imperfect man, who truly tried to reflect God’s authentic love. Many of us, though, have not had my son-in-law’s experience. An example is my [unnamed] friend whose atheistic parents were fundamentally good, caring people, but their values, love, and acceptance were based on performance, cultural success, and a surplus of conditions that left scars on their daughter’s soul.
My friend had never considered she may even have a spiritual essence until alcoholism in her family led her to Al-Anon. From that introduction, she came to accept Christ as “the way, the truth, and the life.” I have been privileged to walk with this brilliant woman, whose intellect and formal education far exceed mine, as she has progressively experienced the extravagant, unconditional acceptance of a Heavenly Father whose character is built upon perfect love.
Recently, she sent me a prayer she had written, and with her permission, I am passing it on to you.
My Sweet Friend’s Prayer
Lord, I want to be the best version of myself that I can be. I’m choosing to continue my efforts in loving others well. It doesn’t come easily, but I know you are more interested and invested in my character than in my convenience! Lord, my prayer is for you to hold me extra close today and help me see others as you see them; help me have your eyes, your ears, and say your words of love and grace through my lips.
In Jesus’ name I pray,
Amen
Today’s musings leave me with my own big ask of my BIG GOD: How can I, such a flawed and imperfect woman, more accurately reflect Your love, beginning with—but flowing far beyond—my husband, daughters, their spouses, and our grandkids?
Photos in today’s post were taken by my husband. Through Ron’s camera lens, I believe he was able to capture an image of how God’s creation—including the magnificent blue heron, as well as you, and me—are able in small ways to reflect the love of God: Father, Son, & Spirit.
Blessings on your journey,
