Likewise, we may have been afraid of loving others unconditionally the God loves us. We may think the person is unworthy because of the way they have treated us. We might be afraid sharing that kind of love might transform our lives. We might be afraid of being seen as weak and vulnerable. Regardless, God expects us to love unconditionally.
Sometimes, when we love, we allow ourselves to become vulnerable, but never weak. Love always opens the door for us to get hurt. It is only through strength can we love.
“We are not called by God to do extraordinary things but to do ordinary things with extraordinary love. ”
Love is always transformative, it is impossible to avoid. Through love, we open ourselves to new experiences that cannot but change us. Sometimes these changes are painful. Sometimes they are not. Often, they make us better human beings.
Because love cannot be forced upon someone, it can be rejected. Some forms of love, when rejected, can be heartbreaking. Many writers have suggested that when Christ said on the cross, “I am thirsty” (John 19:28-29), Jesus was reflecting on how many people would reject His love. His wish for them to receive his love was so great, his wish became an unsatisfiable need. Imagine dying for someone who doesn’t even recognize your sacrifice.
Most of us are not called to lay down our lives for another. But we are called to love. Who in your life are you called to love today?