Everywhere we look, we are reminded that February is the month of love.
We see the store displays and advertisements. We take part in celebrations and buy our fair share of cards, chocolates and flowers. We like to show those we care about that we love them. So why don’t we do small things with great love?
But as I started thinking about this month, and more specifically the day, I began to wonder why we don’t celebrate loving one another with this kind of passion all of the time. Love is not about material things or celebrations. It’s about making the world a better place. It’s about loving others as Christ loves us all of the time.
Tweet ThisA year or so ago, I read a Twitter post asking for people everywhere to join together and make a 100 people happy. I thought that sounded like a great idea until I became bogged down in the number of people.
But then I realized it wasn’t about a number at all; it was about making an effort to help others feel loved and appreciated.
So I made a list. I jotted down the names of family members and added a sprinkle of friends and work colleagues to the mix, figuring that was a good place to start. Then I thought if a few people on my list paid the gesture forward, then our efforts could have far reaching effects.
Here are 5 simple ways to show others you love them:
-
- Write a handwritten note
- Do something nice, even if it’s something small….just because
- Prepare a sweet treat and attach a sentiment
- Listen when they want to talk; really listen
- Be there for them even when they are not so lovable
The point is we have so many opportunities to show God’s love at all times; how we do it is up to each one of us and our creativity. We can call it whatever we want, but it comes back to the same thing–loving one another.
God makes it very clear how He wants us to love. If we are to love others as He loves us then we must be committed to Him and follow Him. Make no mistake, we are able to love to the extent we do because of Him. 1 John 4:7-9.
If we want to be a light to others then we must treat them with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and peace. Colossians 3:12.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to share these words with a friend, family member, acquaintance or colleague?
God’s word tells us, “Just as He loves us all of the time, so must we love one another.” John 13:34 NIV.
As we journey into the week ahead, think about the people around you that you could shower with love and kindness. Take a chance and make somebody’s heart happy. I’ll be praying for you.
Blessings & Hugs!
Mitzi, I think #4 is the hardest for many. In the rushed world we live in, with so much fighting for our attention, we definitely need to be more intentional about listening. I love it when I feel like someone is really listening to me – not looking at their cell phones, or looking away when I talk to them. I want to be that kind of person. I want to be a good listener for others:)
Thank you Kristine. I totally agree. We are competing with so many things, and whether it’s a family member or friend, it’s so important to pay attention to what they’re saying.