At present definition (ii)

Love beyond anything else is a dying to self. (I didn’t fully comprehend its implications when I wrote that back then; I smugly thought I did. Please. I am horribly young and ignorant. I now at least understand a bit more.)

It is not thinking too much or too little of you. We were both wrong and right, and I should be able to tell you why, confidently and without bitterness.

It is painfully fitting that Greg talked about death as vividly as he did of life during his Easter sermon, when he recalled the resurrection and renewal that changed the course of history. Jesus took the whole world in his hands. In my microscopic, self-involved little heart, surely there is room for forgiveness, of myself for the most part. False idols and pride were plucked out of my hands, without my realizing they were burdens, and with lightness there is amazing relief.

I am so thankful that these recent circumstances have also added new challenges to my faith, and want you who read to challenge me to fully express why Titus 3:5-8 summarizes my source of comfort:

“He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”

At present definition

Remember, love is a dying to self.

It means not talking when I feel needy, because it’s time to take on those monsters with solely God on my side. It is calling just to hear the sound of your voice, without this needing to hinge on making plans; it is taking great joy in the fact that I’m treated with the utmost respect, and to return the favor.

Love is letting you know how important you are through my actions without creating an ultimatum. It is about not fighting for time – recognizing we still have a very long way to go (collectively and individually).

It is choosing not to tell you I love you, when I know my heart isn’t in the right place. It is quietly letting you reveal yourself in the most unexpected of ways.

Love is about knowing, and the peace that comes from knowing.

1 John 4:18.

I was told today

“I’m going to be a better person because of you, and I’m not sure how I feel about that.”

A greater joy

Su Yin drew this:

“As a bridegroom rejoices over his bride,
so will your God rejoice over you.”