Unconditional Love

I cannot love unconditionally without being hurt. If I am going to love people as God loves me, I am going to be hurt, taken advantage of, perhaps, even betrayed. I must love anyway. I must love more deeply. My first response must be forgiveness not self-defense. I have the greatest responsibility in each relationship; yet, I am the least important person in the relationship. Their needs must be more important than mine.
The characteristics of unconditional love are compassion, patience, and truth. Jesus never looked on the multitude or individuals without being moved by compassion for their needs--physical and spiritual. Their reason for seeking Him out was irrelevant. And His compassion was always demonstrated by an act to meet those needs. Patience empowers me to love people where they are spiritually, allowing God, through His Spirit, to work in each person's life in His way and in His timing. My love for them as they are allows God to use me as a catalyst" for their growth and deepening understanding of His love--rather than a stumbling block to their trust in Him and His loving patient work in their lives. Truth is an essential element of love because love that is not within the perameters of revealed truth is no longer love. Paul always encourages the church to grow in truth and love. They are inseparable. "If you love me, keep my commandments." "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Love your neighbors as I have loved you."
May the Spirit spread His love in our hearts that through His strength our labor of love will reflect the unconditional, compassionate, patient, truth-honoring love of our Savior.