Speaking the Language of Love
Dear Friends
As February begins, we are thankful and joyful for the abundant love enveloping us. This month is commonly associated with love, and Valentine's Day prompts us to show affection and gratitude to those around us. While the broader world emphasizes romantic love during this period, as a faith community, let us pause and contemplate the profound significance of love as revealed in the word of God.
The essence of love is magnificently expressed by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." (1 Cor 13: 4-7 New International Version).
What kind of love is this? It is Agape love. It is selfless and unconditional love. It serves as the cornerstone of our faith. It is the love that God has bestowed upon us, and it is the love that we are commanded to share with one another and with the world. This month as we commemorate Valentine's Day on the 14th of February, let us explore God's tremendous and transformative love for us rather than focusing only on the conventional displays of love.
I encourage all of us as a church family to reflect God's love in unique ways. Let us take advantage of this moment to connect with one another, offering gestures of friendship and expressing gratitude for the love that unites us in Christ. Consider dedicating this month to purposeful acts of kindness and love within our church community, whether it is a simple note of encouragement, a helping hand, or a thoughtful gesture. Let us reflect on the love that Christ has shown us and become living examples of His grace. While we focus on fostering love within our church family, let us also remember our wider community. The world is in need of love, and our faith urges us to be agents of transformation. Let us strive to embody God's love in every place we go, being the hands, eyes, and feet of Christ in action for those around us.
May this upcoming Valentine's Day be a celebration of a love that goes beyond human comprehension, the love that binds us together as siblings in Christ. May our words and deeds serve as a testimony to the transformative impact of God's infinite love.
Wishing you all a Valentine's Day filled with blessings and love!
In Christ's love
Rev Rosemary Mutopo