Invest; Choose Love

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34

On Saturday, my sweetie and I celebrated our 28th wedding anniversary. Over the years, believe it or not, my sweetheart has done some things that irritated me and yes even hurt me. I also realize that, on occasion, I have done the same thing to him. I can choose to let small petty things bother and damage a relationship or I can choose to let them go and forgive. However, we often hold on to those hurts and then they fester and poison the relationship. Whether it’s a spouse, a coworker, a parent, child, or someone else we choose to extend love or not. I know it’s not a popular thing to say, but especially in marriage, love is definitely a choice; an investment into another person. Jesus tells his disciples “you must love one another”. The word Jesus uses is must, not ought to, or should, or even try; it’s a command, not a suggestion. One thing I am sure of, if Jesus commands it we can do it because God would never ask us to do what is not possible for us to do. It may take time, and it may not be easy, but it will be worth it. Christian friends let's love the way God loved us. Who among us does not need and want love?

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