What Does Love Look Like?

Photo by: Stuart Miles at DigitalPhotos.net     

According to society, love is flowers, candy, kisses, rings, tulle, and the words, “I do.” That is one kind of love. However, there are many others: the love of parents, the love of children, the love of siblings, the love of friends, and the love of things.

In Luke 21:34 Jesus warns us not to become too engrossed in the things of this world as to become complacent to the things of God.

Yet, it is so easy to get caught up in the here and now. It screams at us for attention through social pressures, media, and even friends and family.  With all of this activity, the here and now can still feel empty, devoid of meaning and we ask the age-old questions: “Why am I here?” “What is my purpose in this life?” “Is what I am doing important?”

It is, if it is done in love.

God calls each of us to a specific life. It might not be dramatic or earth changing, but there is a purpose for where we are and what we are dong, if we are obeying God’s will. There are situations and people he wants to touch, through us. We may never know whom, where, or how, and it doesn’t matter. God knows.

So, what then does love look like?

St. Augustine states: “Love has a hand to help others. It has eyes to see misery and want. It has ears to hear the signs and sorrows of others. That’s what love looks like.”

In that regard, have I done anything worthwhile in my life?

Upon reflection, I remembered: the intuitive remark at the right moment to ease another’s concern, the last minute phone call to a friend who had been on my mind all day, and the compliment given to a waiter who had served me with exceptional cheer. 

I am usually unaware of the impact these simple acts have on those who receive them, until told sometime later, and I am always amazed.

And speaking of being amazed, the following quote from one of my devotions had great impact for me, personally. 

Feeding the Poor

Feeding both body and spirit – complimenting someone, listening, caring, writing stories that feed the heart and mind with God’s love.

Author Unknown

Writing stories that feed the heart and mind with God's love.  Wow.  I never thought my scribbles 'could be considered an act of love. Then, I shouldn't be so surprised if God has a hand in it.