“You made me love you. I didn’t want to do it.” I remember singing this song when I was in a group called “Sisters of Swing”. How I didn’t realize that this song’s words would apply in a different aspect more than ten years later!
The word love seems to be all too ordinary. I am not one to easily say, “I love you.” If I do tell you, you should know that it comes from the heart. It is something seldom said, but meaningful when spoken. There should be effect in that spoken word, therefore, it is used sparingly.
India. Ah! Aw! Now that has a special place in my heart. I can truly say, “I love India.” So, you can imagine my dilemma when I felt compelled to go to El Salvador. Yes, there was excitement of going someplace new, of the unknown, of a different type of ministry. However, there just wasn’t room for love. That was reserved.
This picture, this tear makes the necessary accommodations. I now can say, “I love India. Yes, but I also love El Salvador.” El Salvador, you made me love you. I didn’t want to do it! I didn’t want to be torn between “where” I should go. I didn’t want to make room in my heart, because it does take its toll.
The toll is priceless when it encompasses a soul. The expense of loving returns substantially. Reservations are not observed. “There is no fear in love. 18”
The love for El Salvador was tangible. Each one prayed for was to be touched. They could then feel God’s love through us. “And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love.16 … love is made complete among us.17 We love because He first loved us.19 (1 John 4)” We were able to be God’s hands and feet, bringing love to His children. Even those who stood in the distance, they were beyond our touch, but not our reach. They were able to hear of God’s love.
Beloved, feel His touch today. Feel His loving arms around you as you face the uncertainties of this life. Let His love rain down on you as you listen for that Still Small Voice in the quiet hours. He is love. God is love. He loves you unconditionally. May you feel that passion deep in your soul today and know that you are never out of His reach!
