Like, what's the real meaning of love?
In honor of February where hearts, roses and candy are all around us, let's open our bibles and find what love is.
Not the heart-fluttering, romance novel kind of love. The Bible demonstrates love in all its flavors -- divine, family, romantic - you name it.
Have you heard the saying "love is patient, love is kind"? -- Straight from the bible! It's like a roadmap for how love shows up in our lives. But it's not all sweet and rosy. The Bible doesn't shy away from the tough side of love.
Take the story of Jesus, for example. Talk about love in its most selfless form. He literally laid down his life for others.
Then we have stories like Ruth and Naomi, (Book of Ruth) Unwavering love and loyalty to her MIL leads to Ruth's marriage to Boaz and her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus. Jacob and Rachel (Genesis 29:18-20) Their story is like an ancient soap opera, and it shows how powerful and enduring romantic love can be.
Diving into these stories show us love in action and offers a bit of guidance on how to bring more love into our own lives.
The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) - Teaches the importance of showing mercy and compassion beyond cultural and social boundaries.
David & Jonathan's Friendship (1 Samuel 18:1-4) Deep, selfless love based on mutual respect and loyalty.
Jesus Washing the Disciples' Feet (John 13:1-17) - Jesus demonstrates love through humble service.
The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) - Shows the joy and restoration that comes from forgiving and being forgiven.
Mary Magdalene's Devotion to Jesus (John 20:11-18) - Mary's deep love and devotion to Jesus, staying by his tomb.
Mary and Joseph (Matthew 1:18-25) - Joseph's compassionate and loving response to Mary illustrates love founded on faith, trust and obedience to God's will.
There are many examples of love in the bible. February is a good time for a loving review!
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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
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