All my life I’ve only really wanted one thing. I didn’t pray for wealth, or success, or power, or possessions…just love.
Yes, my parents loved me, and for that I’m thankful. But they were unable to show their love physically or verbally: it was just there in the way they cared for me. There were no hugs or kind, warm words, just food on the table and clean clothes.
Yes, I’ve had girlfriends and one wife. The girlfriends claimed they loved me and showed it by going off with other guys. After many years of relationships, I have to confess to feeling unloved for most of that time.
Have I given love? That’s a fair question. I think I’ve tried, but not enough. I’m guilty too.
People in the church talk about love, because they have to-it’s written in the Scriptures and the words of Jesus. But if you aren’t in the right clique; if you don’t have the right occupation; if you don’t look just right or say the right things, you ain’t going to get loved in the church, and I know a lot of people will agree with me there. As elsewhere, you have to be handsome and successful-or very useful in some way-to be loved in the church.
There’s plenty of “love” going around, but there are also plenty of relationship problems and break-ups, and unfaithfulness. That isn’t love: that’s use and abuse. That’s selfishness and lust.
God loves me. At least, that’s what my Bible tells me. Jesus Christ died on the cross for me because he loves me. But where is he when I need a hug and some kind words? He isn’t here: I have to believe that he loves me. I have to strengthen my own weak knees and tell myself that I’m loved.
Sometimes it isn’t easy. I need my brothers and sisters to show it for Him. And I must do the same.
Thanks for reading.
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