The Fourth Sunday of Advent: Reflection on Love

Once more, we visit our friend, The Dictionary, to see what there is to say about Love: Love is a strong affection for one another, to hold dear, warm attachment, and an assurance of affection. Our assurance of affection is found in God, who loves us dearly, with a love that we can never be separated from (Romans 8:38-39)

“We cultivate love when we allow our most vulnerable and powerful selves to be deeply seen and known, when we honour the spiritual connection that grows from that offering with trust, respect, kindness and affection.” - Atlas of the Heart

A phrase you may be familiar with hearing is that “We love because God first loved us”. It’s a beautiful expression of God loving us as our authentic selves, and us receiving that Love. Then, we extend that Love to others and give Love back to God. We also receive God’s love from others as we accept their loving kindness as others also made in the image of God.

Love is a beautiful, unending expression that flows all around us. It’s communal, honest, and a gift from God. (See 1 John 4:19)

Reflect on Love
Today, take some time to reflect on love and chat with God about what it’s like for you to consider love here and now…

✦ “Those who are loved by God, let his love continually pour from you to one another, because God is love.” - 1 John 4. God is love. We are loved by God. Our response to that love is to love one another. What is it like for you to consider the endless cycle of love all of creation is in with God? 

✦  You are never separated from God’s love. How does that feel in your body when you read that? What emotions come up? Notice your natural response to this idea? What do your responses tell you about your understanding or belief in that statement?

✦  How are you extending God’s love for you out into the world during this season?

✦ What might God be inviting you into as you consider the love this season and beyond?