True Love

Not many words to say today...meditating instead on the extreme gentleness of true love...

The previous post spoke of a message that has often been communicated to me in a variety of ways. A gift of sorts, simply waiting to be received.

Today, a realization that true love is not forceful - it does not demand that things be done a certain way, does not push it's own agenda, does not shove anything in another's face.

True love offers - extends - and hopes to be received.

When we show genuine love to another, we do not force our thoughts, ideas, and opinions on them. We share what we know, and we hope to be of help. We give what we have that we might bless and encourage.

God is no different - His Word says we were created in His image.

He loves, He is love, and in His perfection, He offers us the best. His Word spells out what He knows, explains what He has, and invites us to receive. He does not demand that we believe, follow, love. He never forces His way, just gently suggests because He knows what we need.

The stubbornness in me does not deserve such gentle reminders - more like a slap in the face after years of doing things my way. Yet it is my choice.

Believe that I know best and continue to struggle, or recognize my own needs and choose to daily accept a loving offer of help?

I always have a choice because true love waits to be received.

216. Being surprised (again!) by a clean car after it has been repaired.

217. Seeing doors begin to open after others have closed.

218. A daughter's anticipation of tomorrow's play-date.

219. Another daughter's recognition for educational and musical achievements.

220. A Mother's pride at her children's God-given abilities.

221. Excitement about being driven home from school instead of riding the bus - not yet embarrassed to be seen with Mom!

222. Perseverance in homework challenges.

223. Kindergarten tball practice that brings back memories of another talented son who was once so young and small.

224. Eating cold sandwiches in the car for dinner and hearing no complaints.

225. Wind that brings close the scent of new tree blossoms from far away.

226. A magnificently breathtaking sunset.