A Life Without Love by Rev. Dr. James H. Hudson

"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." 1 John 3:16

A life without love is truly a tragic life.

The season of Easter is especially about abundant sacrificial and complete love. Many people suffer in silence due to a loss of hope, patience or expectation of ever having a fulfilling and loving life, but it does not have to be that way. Some are living in quiet desperation because of feelings of depression and defeat while their lives actually model organized decay. Others simply live in a state of self deprecation.

Consider that we are designed by God to give love and be the recipients of love. God instructs us to love one another (Matthew 22:36-40). It seems commonplace today that we hear of all manner of dislike, hatred, envy and violence toward our fellow man in an unusual bid to validate poor behaviors and actions. Love does not behave in such a way. These self defeating actions and behaviors demonstrate lives without love.

Hostile environments breed hostile individuals. Whether the lives are lived in poor socioeconomic neighborhoods, affluent gated communities, or rural pastoral conditions, these folks live lives dedicated to self-centered activities designed to skillfully manipulate the people in those areas. True love may be lacking. Christ sacrificed his life for all of us out of a sincere love (St. John 3:16; 1 John 2:2). His love and sacrifice have given us the victory over sin and shame. All of those feelings of despair and hopelessness wash away when we choose to embrace a life filled with authentic love.

The Holy Bible asserts that love can and does cover a multitude of sin and egregious acts (Proverbs 10:12; 1 Peter 4:8). The least we can do is treat each other with decency, respect and kindness (Ephesians 4:32) knowing that our actions are not in vain (Galatians 6:9-10).

During this season of love and hope, let the sacrifice of your love demonstrate a true and sincere care for those around you and those you come to meet. Genuinely practice a life filled with love and your gift will be a life that receives great love. Love conquers all.

#love #sin #forgiveness