How to let love flow

​Have you ever heard a kid's definition of love? It's usually something sweet and simple, like sharing your French fries without expecting any in return. Kids seem to get the essence of love in ways that we, tangled up in our adult complexities, often miss. This got us thinking about love from both a child’s and a divine perspective. What if we could blend the simplicity children see in love with the profound depth of God's love?

First off, love is more than just a feeling; it's an action. We've all heard the phrase, "Love is something you do," right? It's easy to say "I love you," but showing it? That's where the real magic happens. Love isn't just for the easy times; it's for the messy, challenging moments. It's easy to fall in love, but staying in love? That's the real quest.

Interestingly, the Bible is pretty obsessed with love. Mentioned over 700 times, it's kind of a big deal. But not just any love - we're talking about agape love, a selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love. It's the kind of love that changes everything, from our closest relationships to the way we interact with strangers.

So, where does this leave us? Well, if we're aiming for a love that truly reflects something divine, it starts at home. Love your family, your friends, even that coworker who always seems to be on your last nerve. Make love a verb. And when you mess up? Learn the art of forgiveness. It's not just about saying sorry; it's about transforming how we relate to each other.

But here's the kicker: none of this is possible without tapping into the source - Jesus. It sounds cliché, but hear me out. Connecting with Jesus, really walking with Him, fills us with a kind of love that spills over into every area of our lives. It's like being a cup filled to the brim, overflowing with love for others.

Now, you might be thinking, "That's all well and good, but what does it look like in real life?" It's in the everyday moments. It's choosing kindness over being right. It's in the patience we show and the self-control we muster up (even when we'd rather not). It's in the joy and peace we carry into the world, regardless of our circumstances.

But let's be real, we often fall short. We're not always the shining examples of love we hope to be. And yet, that's exactly why this message of love is so important. It's not about being perfect; it's about being connected to the perfect source of love.

In a world that's often divided and hurting, what we need more than ever is this supernatural love flowing through us. Imagine the impact we could have if our relationships, our communities, even our online interactions were infused with this kind of love. It's not just about us; it's about pointing others to the ultimate source of love.

So, what's the takeaway? Start with the love that's been shown to you, and let it flow out. It's not complicated, but it's profoundly challenging. Yet, it's also incredibly rewarding. Because at the end of the day, love really is all you need.

- Adapted from sermons preached across our 3 campuses on 4/7/24.