Moments of Love?

Do we experience the love of Jesus? Even more significantly, do we experience loving Him in return? Does the thought of Jesus bring joy?

Peter said, Though you have not seen him, you love him . . . and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. . . . (I Pet. 1:8 NIV)

Of course, there will be times when we don’t feel love. There are times when love will be a choice—even if we feel more-or-less dead inside. But a close walk with God—just like a close walk with any other person—should include moments of tangible love and moments of joy.

These moments may come when we set time aside to be with Him—to pray, to ask questions, or to enjoy His Presence. They may come when we struggle with a specific task He sets before us. They may even come when we aren’t consciously thinking of Him at all.

Those special moments are like visitations. Whatever the circumstance, treasure His tangible expressions of love. We are precious in His sight, and He wants to be precious in our sight. He desires a love relationship with His children.

Originally published February 17, 1989.
Picture: Como Park, St. Paul, MN 2009. Photo by Solveig.

Personal Letters

There are many misconceptions about the apostle named Paul: he is often portrayed by people today as a man of no emotion. Yet his letters are full of greetings and friendly words to friends. He relates personal accounts of disappointment or joy. All suggest a rich emotional life.

Look at his letters to Timothy. Paul and Timothy enjoyed a close relationship when they traveled and worked together. While still a young man, Timothy proved his worth to Paul. Paul could send Timothy to settle disputes. Timothy went on preaching-teaching side-trips. The two men shared a common vision, and because their ministries were connected, they also experienced common hardships.

Paul’s letters to Timothy reveal their relationship. He recounted loneliness: At my first defense, no one came to support. (II Tim. 4:16 NIV) He recounted victory in a spiritual battle: But the Lord stood at my side . . . I was delivered from the Lion’s Mouth. (v. 17)

Most of all, Paul emphasized the source of his strength when he was vulnerable: The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom (v. 18a)

Originally published October 25, 1985.

Picture: Commercial landscaping, West Fargo, 2009. Photo by Solveig.