THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE
My grandparents played a very important role in my emotional development as a child. They showed unconditional love and acceptance to a little boy who often had trouble liking himself. They were proud of me and showed genuine joy when I was around, causing me to look at myself in a better way. Now, 70 years later, I still feel their love and acceptance. They have had a greater impact on me and who I have become than I can imagine.
Now I am a grandparent. Nancy and I have numerous grandchildren. My children are grown so I have less influence, but I can have a good impact on my grandchildren. I want to show them the same unconditional love and acceptance, the same joy and pleasure that I experienced with my grandparents. That is a legacy I am committed to passing on.
My grandchildren have different love languages . I try to show love in a way that speaks to them individually. Some are more open emotionally. When correction is needed ,I try to show love in my approach.
God loves us unconditionally. It’s hard to really comprehend those words unless we experience them on a human level. We have a privileged opportunity to show our grandchildren unconditional love makes it easier for them to understand and respond to their Heavenly Father’s love. Doing so is a responsibility as well as a joy.
1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
To whom can you show God’s unconditional love today: mate, family member, neighbor, friend or stranger, someone you aren’t getting along with?? Commit to doing so and follow through ASAP.