Real love must become part of our daily lives

THE EDITOR: Why is there so much hate? Why is there so much misunderstanding among families, friends and even nations? And more importantly, why should we as Christians not follow the advice given in the Holy book? This world of ours needs love, and more love, not hate, anger and violence. I have had the honour and the pleasure of working with a number of young people, and discovered a most startling thing. Between ten to 15 percent of them complained of lack of parental love.

Could this be true? Why should this be true, when we as parents, are supposed to be aware of our responsibilities? A responsibility we are to discharge, with grace, dignity, patience and love. What do we mean by love or loving someone? Here is what the Bible says “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perserves. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 (NIV) Is the above description true of your relationship with the ones you claim to love? Think of your relationships with those you love — your husband or wife, children, your parents, your friends etc. Do they know from your actions, that you love them? If you truly love someone, the following conditions must exist: First, we must be patient. People are only human, the same as you are, and they may make mistakes just like you do. When they err, you should forgive them the way that you would like to be forgiven.

Second, we must be kind. You should give people the same consideration that you would like to be given. You should speak with words and a tone that would promote a harmonious relationship. Third, we should avoid envy. When someone has accomplished something good, be happy for him and celebrate with him. It should be just as important to you as if it was your own achievement. Fourth, love always protects. One’s safety, reputation, and feelings should be of utmost importance. We must never intentionally do anything that would endanger one’s physical health or well-being. In addition, we should be just as protective of our mental and spiritual well-being. No one else must ever hear you say destructive things to or about him/her. Everyone has room for improvement, so your words should be designed to build up rather than to tear down. Fifth, love always trusts. You will remember that, even when one makes a mistake or hurts your feelings. You must forgive and wipe the slate clean. You must push jealousy, suspicion, doubting, and skeptical thoughts out of your mind where the other person is concerned, and give him/her the same “benefit of the doubt” that you would like to receive from them. Sixth, love always hopes. You must have faith in your relationship.

You must have confidence that he/she is capable of being a good person and is able to accomplish great things. Also, we must look toward a good, thriving relationship with him/her in the future. Seventh, love always perseveres. Even when the bad things come, you should stick with him/her no matter what. We must be there to share the joys and tears, to give comfort and to be comforted through thick and thin. Finally, because of the fickleness of the human being, we may not be able to save all marriages or remove all the hate and anger in the world. However, if we allow the power of the living God to touch our lives anything is possible. May God continue to bless us all.

COLVIN BLAIZE
Chaguanas