How do you spell “love?”
Parents know that the word love must be spelled out for their children. Often the spelling is T-I-M-E. Or it might be spelled,
H-U-G-S. Once in a while tough love requires the spelling,
B-O-U-N-D-A-R-I-E-S. Love always demands a spelling of
E-X-A-M-P-L-E. (“Do as I say and not as I do” never did work and still doesn’t!)
Love is also spelled in many ways in the local church. At times it reads S-U-B-S-T-I-T-U-T-E, as in filling in for the usual Sunday school teacher. Can you read the word “love” as you O-B-E-Y the Lord in the areas of attendance and tithing? I think of H-E-A-R-T as I see the love of VBS teachers who cheerfully give of their hours to precious (and occasionally rambunctious) children.
Love must also be the chief ingredient when conflict occurs with another believer. Sometimes the spelling begins with the “L” of love but then adds, “I-S-T-E-N.” We cannot overcome difficulties without clearly hearing and understanding one another.
C-O-M-P-R-O-M-I-S-E is not a word associated with love—and for good reason if we are speaking of biblical truths which must always be upheld. However, it is love when you’d rather have green carpet than the blue the church voted to install and yet you cheerfully support the project.
P-A-T-I-E-N-C-E is love with a bridle on. Patience with one another when we do not understand is an important aspect of love. M-E-M-O-R-Y is another component of love, notably the kind of memory that recalls everyone is having a hard time in some area of their lives and a little understanding is called for. F-O-R-G-I-V-E-N-E-S-S is love put to action. Let’s remember our Lord also forgave us.
Recently I saw love in our Association. It came in the form of W-O-R-K, the labor of raising a tent, moving chairs and tables under it, and setting up for a super Green Valley Associational picnic.
The day after the picnic I saw love spelled
S-E-R-V-E. A man at the picnic had noticed that the grass had overgrown part of the driveway behind the building. He could have called in to complain. He could have contacted the proper committee to handle the problem. He did neither of these. Instead, he came over with a shovel and gave two hours to clear the drive.
He didn’t know I saw him that day, but I did. His efforts inspired me to give of myself in other ways. He also caused me to thank God for the efforts of volunteers like those who will help with World Changers. I am learning with you that true love is often spelled, S-E-R-V-E.
Loving Him and you,
Bill Patterson
