The beauty of love (Part II)
"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." (NIV) 1 John 4:8
The first part of the devotional (The beauty of love) considered how it all started to be a great adventure of love in action and tenderness, between Helen Keller and her teacher, Annie Sullivan. We saw how Helen personally described her turning point (in her deaf-blindness), propelled by the unconditional serving heart of Annie.
Now, Helen began writing several letters to famous people in Europe at the age of ten. The girl whose future was virtually swept away was now living meaningfully, through a touch of love. She had become connected to the world and out of the shadows turned polyglot, having mastered five languages that stunned many. And Annie was not spared the amazement of Helen’s later abilities beyond what she had been instructed in. But Annie did not deny Helen the constant encouragement for daily living.
Much more, when we are found by God’s love, we find our true selves and live life to the fullest. On the other hand, God expects that we also genuinely live a life of love. By loving each other, we thus express the love of God (John 15:12). Love is kind and doesn’t seek its own (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a).
Love always gives back. After some years, Annie also lost her eyesight but she was able to easily adjust to a world of blindness because of the kindness and help from Helen. Christy Nockels sums up the beauty of love in her song titled, “By our love”. God is known by His unconditional love and so must we, if we are His children, for “they will know us by our love” (John 13:35).
May we conquer, live and act by love, since love is stronger. There is indeed much to be done. Stay blessed.