I have heard 3409830498304982 sermons/messages/talks/lessons on agape (unconditional love).
The reality of this is like many other aspects of Christianity in that it fades in and out of focus. All relationships include times where different aspects fade in and out. The addition of Avery Ruth to my family has opened my eyes in a fresh way to characteristics of unconditional love. Avery has nothing to give me in terms of approval or agreement. She may stop crying when I pick her up or simply make eye contact. Overall, however, she cannot "give" me anything. On the other hand, Cambria who is almost 2 1/2 years old can run to me and say "Daddy" or laugh at my stupid voices or make me feel good by saying "I love you Daddy." At points, Cambria's love is conditional and I can provide the thing to which she responds. I have been disturbed by how much I can sense in my spirit this difference. In fact, I can sense that I want to get a response from Cambria when I only get cries and some more cries (at this point) from Avery.
Doesn't this whole post show my selfishness? Isn't it amazing how God uses massive changes in a person's life to reveal just how ridiculous the human heart is when a sobering review is made of it...?
1 comment:
I'm sitting here waiting to give unconditional love to an infant... in about 2 months. I'm also sitting here freaked out about the fact that I'm SUPPOSED to give unconditional love to an infant in about 2 months - knowing how conditioned my love to my wife is.
I can't imagine its easy and I'm excited and scared at the same time.
Good word J Lee!
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