Love in Any Language
Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up, does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth, bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
My husband and I are wrapping up our ministry time in Albania. Although impoverished, the country is one of the most beautiful places I have had the privilege of experiencing. We have had to have an interpreter while we are here. However, many kids in the younger generations speak English because it is taught in school as a primary subject.
The language barrier has been a hindrance at times when we have tried to get across an idea with a word or illustration that isn’t as familiar to the people here. However, there is one language I have found that transcends any barrier, and that is the language of love.
Love is a language clearly recognized and spoken easily to others without saying a single word. It’s a smile, a touch on the arm, or a warm hug. It is also shown in how we prefer others, putting them and their needs above our own. Our Albanian friends have also lavished their love on us through food (A LOT OF FOOD)!
In return, something that has spoken love to them is the sacrifice of our time. We could have chosen to spend our time doing many things. (We have our daughter’s wedding this month that I could have spent a lot of time with). But encouraging the pastors of this beautiful country with our love and support has been worth every sacrifice on our side.
This month we will be focusing on the subject of relationships. The common thread to make all relationships work properly is love. It’s preferring others over yourself and sacrificing – or giving of your time, talents, and even money.
I challenge you to examine the relationships in your life. How can you love them and give them a little more of yourself today?
Dear Lord, thank you for your love for me. Help me to see opportunities to help and bless others. Amen.