The love of Christ Jesus...

Father, your creation declares your greatness and lovingkindness, encouraging statements of pure truth in our daily walk... Chances are, we've all heard the expression, "Absence makes the heart grow fonder" at one time or another in our lifetime. I sincerely believe it's a true proclamation, but that doesn't remove the pain of being absent from those we love dearly and deeply. The words of Joni Mitchel who wrote and sang, "You don’t know what you’ve got till it’s gone" ring loud and true. We / I have taken for granted the blessings of relationships far too many times in my life; not telling those I love, "I love you" enough. Even those that are uncomfortable saying it are often very good at demonstrating the pure definition of love, but when a loved one is removed from our presence, all we can think about is that we didn't say it enough. Jesus said, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." (John 13:34) May we love with the love of Christ in all situations and circumstances, and then never be bashful when it comes to telling others why we love; we love because HE first loved us… Thank you, Jesus, for showing us that you are the way, the truth, and the life; THE answer for those committed to seeking the truth in all things!