Blog question for the week following May 17, 2009

Our Scripture lessons speak of love: John 15:12-17 and 1st John 5:1-6. This is not romantic love, or the love of friendship or for a pet, but the love of God that fulfills and makes durable every human love. Although always with us by the power of God's Holy Spirit, this love is often observed by us in the exceptional moments of life, e.g. when we find the power to forgive, or let go, or make a sacrifice.

Begin by seeing yourself being submerged in the cold waters of baptism. You are held down; all around you is water, bubbles rising, shimmering reflections, light. You are bathed in God's love, you are dying into it. Suddenly you are yanked out, cold air strikes you! Love remains - you are still sopping wet and there is no means to get dry - but now you are experiencing God's love in a new life.

You have drowned all except for love. Equipped only with love, how will you love and who will you love? Recall that even animals love their own kin and we humans love our friends: But how will you love as God loves?