The Gift of Love

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16).  One of the most poignant expressions of the real meaning of love is presented by Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 13. He concludes this letter by saying: "Now abides faith, hope, love, these three, but the greatest is love.  The love being referenced here is an overflowing love that is faithful, committed and loyal amid adversities of life.  True love can flourish, persevere and endure, even among the most difficult or challenging circumstances. There is only one person who exemplified perfect love on earth-Jesus Christ.  Because of love, He was presented as a gift to bring hope, peace, joy and love to the whole world.  This is how God showed His love among us, He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. (1John 4:9,10)  In a world filled with hatred, rebellion, disobedience, unrest, etc., many are running to and fro trying to find love in all of the wrong places.  The love of God is greater than any other force and will last throughout time and eternity; it is a gift that keeps on giving. Christianity is a lifestyle of love and obedience to God's will, based upon a personal relationship with Christ, not just an intellectual exercise.  Love is where joy gestates, hate is where anger incubates, it is a choice. There are many spiritual gifts, but the greatest is love, so we endeavor to love God, love one another as He loves us.