Tall Order

Half way through 2007 [my] Pastor Joe [DiSarno] preached about the qualities of God's love. Agape love looks so different from man's concept of love. Agape thinks more about the welfare of others than the welfare of self. Agape gives more than it takes. Agape is more than just feelings.

As Pastor Joe spoke on the matter over a period of a few weeks, I began to think that agape -- unconditional love -- is such a tall order. It's the kind that is not based on feelings. It's the kind that's always extravagant. It's the kind that's always willing to make sacrifices. At the end of this series of sermons, two questions came to mind: who can measure up to such high standards, and can I measure up to such high standards?

The answers? Well, to the first one -- Jesus measured up to the standards. He was born without sin. He lived a life without sin. He modeled love at its purest, highest form. He was compassionate to the corrupt, kind to the poor, merciful to the sinner, open to the oppressed. Yet His love was firm and strong and He wasn't afraid to dish out tough love when necessary. He made the most extravagant sacrifice that anyone can make -- He laid down His life for His friends... and enemies. He loved when it felt good. He loved when it hurt. He loved even when no one reciprocated. He loved completely, ultimately, unconditionally.

To the second -- by God's grace I can [attempt / hope] to measure up to the standard.

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Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13