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“And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.”  Romans 5:5 (NIV)

One-third more for free.  Turbo-charged.  I was surmising how my ability to love others changes with the infusion of Jesus into my life.  My love plus some was the conclusion to which I eventually arrived.   Then, I encountered the furious customer who wanted my head and thought it would relieve the pain caused by her wayward husband.  Then, the co-worker who deep in her own angst of unmet expectations cared little about how her words would affect me.  Then, the child with no voice, neglected and alone once again.  My muses of love too insufficient, not up to the challenges presented it.

Jesus’ ability to love continually set him apart.  Israel watched for a Savior.  Jesus was the unexpected.  The Pharisees inquired as to why Jesus would do the unthinkable and eat with sinners and tax collectors.  Hearing this, Jesus responds with “I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Mark 2: 17)  Breaking Sabbath customs?  Jesus asks is it not lawful to do good and save life? The prominence of one’s mother and brothers clear, Jesus expands His solidarity to all those who do God’s will.  Jesus, exhausted and burdened by the assignment given Him, made time for those who believed, who had need, who reached out for help.  And the Pharisees laughed and planned Jesus’ death.

How then am I to love?  Like Jesus – in unexpected ways.  God’s love being poured through me as my love is His love, and I have the privilege of being the chosen vessel.  Time with my Father.  Faith that believes because I know the character of my Father.  Allowing the Holy Spirit to empty me of me and become His masterpiece.  And in so doing, to be obedient to His voice and undaunted in my care for others.  To look beyond the outward signs of apathy or hurt.  To be an encouragement even when I’m tired, even when it’s not convenient and even outside of church hours.  Much love is needed, all vessels have a place.

“Father, thank You for Your love that allows me to love others in a way that cannot be compared to any experience in my natural human state.  That others will know You Jesus because of my love.”

For His Glory

Kathryn Hayman
TRBC Women’s Life