Never Ending
Love never ends. 1 Corinthians 13:8
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 107:1
Insight
Anytime there is a special occasion like celebrating a birthday, an impressive report card, or some other moment, Madison, my oldest daughter, requests that we go to the Olive Garden. She gets giddy at the mere mention of their "Italian-inspired cuisine."
Even though she's got a tiny frame, Madi has a hollow leg while feasting at the OG. When we roll up, we make sure we get our money's worth. The waiter knows to keep those refills coming and never dare let an empty basket sit too long before sending out a new batch of those warm and fluffy sticks of dough.
We put their claim of never-ending pasta and unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks to the test, and to their credit, it holds up. Of course, eventually, we tap out or succumb to a food coma, but if we requested more, we would be sure to receive it.
Today's verse, part of one of the most famous passages of Scripture, highlights different aspects and qualities of love. And, in verse 8, a bold claim is made by the Apostle Paul - LOVE NEVER ENDS.
Let that sink in for a moment: God's affection for us is unlimited. There are endless ways He cares for us. Our behavior, our past mistakes, and our shortcomings don't restrain His tenderness. No matter what we say or do, His love shows up over and over and over again. After all else has faded away, His love remains.
To honestly sit and ponder this reality should cause us to tap out, to be overwhelmed by the grace, mercy, and forgiveness sent our way. A never-ending love can't help but leave us satisfied and content. When we get our fill, we carry the weight of His love with us. We're bursting at the seams.
His endless love has implications for our connections with others. It transforms the way we approach our relationships. We're called to reflect His heart to the world around us. Yes, we indeed love because He first loved us. But, the love we extend to others can't have fine print, conditions, or loopholes. It shouldn't be in short supply or offered for a limited time.
God never gives up on us, so we can't give up on loving other people, even through difficulty and adversity or when it's not reciprocated. His love endures, so our love and investment should be for the long haul. When others give up or give in, we show up time and time again to overwhelm them with a love that has no end. In life, we will fail at this goal sometimes, but the good news is that God's love will never fail us.
Reflection
Where do you need to be reminded that His love never ends, which means it never runs out or gives up?
Prayer
God, love defines You and makes up Your being. It is who You are. I will never comprehend the depth of Your love. Even if I were to spend the rest of my days contemplating it, I would run out of time. Thank you for loving me in ways I will never understand on this side of eternity. May this love shape everything about me. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
