Some of us used to play “He loves me, he loves me not” in elementary school. We believed this game of French origin was a way to determine whether someone we liked returned our affection. We alternately would say the phrases, “He loves me, He loves me not,” while plucking petals off of a flower. Whichever phrase corresponded to the removal of the last petal supposedly represented the truth of our crush’s feelings.
I am so thankful this game is not a true measure of real love. 1 John 3:18 says, “My dear children, let us not just talk about love; let us practice real love in actions and in truth.”
We know from scripture that Christ’s love for His people is deep, unfailing and eternal, and we are to show this same love to each other.
John 13:34 states, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you.” John also tells us that showing love is not merely talking about it, but demonstrating it out in our deeds. Love is a commandment from God and a characteristic of a child of God.
So how deep is your love? I love this quote by New Testament scholar Clarence Jordan: “The measure of a Christian is not in the height of his grasp, but in the depth of his love.” We need to realize the depth of love Christ has for us. God dwells deep and wide within us, and his love becomes complete in us — His perfect love.
“My dear children, let us not just talk about love; let us practice real love in actions and in truth.” 1 John 3:18
Our love is imperfect, fragile and flawed, yet God loves us deeply and unconditionally. God works through us despite our weaknesses. Our capacity to love often extends beyond human limitations and understanding. As we allow God to work through us, we can give our all — love, share, sacrifice and stand for truth.
We are God’s handiwork, and the ability to love is part of what it means to be created in God’s image. Real love is deeply rooted and grounded in Him. God’s love never fails; it is infinite — a well that never runs dry.
So, how deep is your love? If you are drawing from the reservoir of God’s love in you, it is endless. Let us give freely and live a life punctuated by love.
