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LOVE

In 1974 the Swedish band, Blue Swede, released a catchy toon called “Hooked on a Feeling”. Perhaps it was their one-and-only big hit because it missed the mark on what love truly is. Love is more than a feeling; love should always lead to action. Mary and Joseph’s love for God, for instance, led to faithfulness. Mary was the first to receive news of the incarnate Gospel message when the angel Gabriel appeared to her, and she replied, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). We have no recorded words for Joseph, however, his actions showed his devotion to God – he did what the Lord told him to do. The faithfulness of Mary and Joseph was seen as they brought Jesus to the temple year after year for the festivals as God commanded.

As a little girl, I grew up attending church with my family. I saw faithfulness not only on the holidays but week after week. I often visited my grandparents’ house next door where I frequently saw their Bibles open on the kitchen table. If my Papa wasn’t done reading when I arrived, he would read to me. This was my first exposure to what a relationship with God looks like, and a picture that inspires me today. Those moments – so long ago – planted seeds in my heart that have grown. Today, my favorite place is in front of an open Bible with a hot cup of coffee. I want to be that example for my own children. A faithful life isn’t lived out of obligation but out of love for our Savior.

Prayer: Father, thank you for loving me so much that you sent Jesus. I pray my love for you is evident.