September 2021
Nougat 4
I date myself when I quote that song as part of my youth. This song however, captures the reality on the ground. Many people want to ‘know what love is’, and sometimes the lesson appears from unsafe sources. We get an opportunity to share love after feasting on Today’s Holy Nougat
“Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but become an example of the faithful—in speech, in conduct, in love, in faithfulness, and in purity.”
1 Timothy 4:12 TLV
Sometimes, being Christ’s loving example to the world is not very easy. It demands turning other cheek, possibly feeling as if one is being used by others. Furthermore, one has to also practice compassion at times and in situations where that might not be our desire or first choice of action.
Love however, God’s love that is; goes way beyond the superficial to focus on the person/s: the fears, woundedness, hurt, and insecurities often hidden far from the public view. And when this love is offered, there is always that possibility it will be accepted and reciprocated.
And that’s the fun part. For all the rejections, betrayal, negative responses we can receive; there are the blessings that may neutralize the adverse effects of the rough moments. Little things like a smile, a whispered thank you, or even a blessing – whether from those loved on, or others (including complete strangers) can remind us that it’s really important to give and live Love at all times.
Loving is a biblical mandate. Jesus Himself names it as the greatest commandment in Matthew 22. Interestingly, He also cited Love as the second greatest commandment; to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. Somehow, for many of us, that’s a toughie. For many of us have mastered the art of loving our neighbors, but have not yet started the journey to loving ourselves – body, mind and spirit.
It is not always seen to be a good thing to prioritize ourselves. Yet, if we ought to love others as we love our selves ; we MUST first love us; warts beauty marks and all. This also means taking care of our bodies; keeping our minds in tune with Christ, pampering ourselves and making time for ourselves. And, whereas we don’t seek to be excessive; modeling self-love can be transformational for someone else. (And it can also transform us, if we’ve been traumatized by abuse or body shamed or taught to put ourselves last).
So, today we’ll work on being loving examples for ourselves and the world to see. What a difference that will be!
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May all we seek be found in Christ