Luke 15:11-32
Since tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, I thought we would spend a little time on the power of love in our lives. The New Testament uses three Greek words to express love—Eros (physical intimacy),
Philia (friendship), and Agape (the love produced in us by the Holy Spirit).(Galatians 5:22)
Our Father cares for us with agape love. He sacrificed His Son Jesus to bring us into a right
relationship with Him. (1 John 4:10) We are demonstrating agape love when we:
- Respond calmly to difficulties. To the Prodigal Son’s untimely demand for his share of the inheritance, the father didn’t reply with angry words about ungrateful children. Though the boy’s attitude must have caused pain, the man held his tongue and did not retaliate. In calmness, he could think more clearly and choose to love.(1 Corinthians 13:5)
- Sacrifice without complaint. The father, quietly and without complaint, gave the legacy as requested. Although he knew his son was committed to a ruinous course, he directed his efforts towards preserving their relationship. In so doing, he chose the way of love.
- Wait patiently. Out of deep affection, the father allowed his son to leave and to stay away.What heartache he must have had; yet he remained hopeful.He waited for the boy to recognize that sin cannot deliver what it has promised.Waiting is feasible only through the power of agape love. (1 Corinthians 13:4)
I didn’t say love would be easy. It often means we get the short end of the stick. Your willingness to practice the ‘agape’ love will go a lot farther than flowers or candy. That’s the power of love.
Quote for the Day: "Faith is needed for the impossible and you dare to act on the Word as though the impossible had become a possibility…a reality." E.W. Kenyon Luke 18:27
Good Deed for the Day: Overtip your waitress or waiter for you next breakfast out. "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25
PS No Family Hour tonight due to weather. Watch your step out there!