“Agape love writes the check when the balance is low, forgives the mistake when the offense is high, offers patience when stress is abundant, and extends kindness when kindness is rare. Agape love gives.”- Max Lucado
“This is love: not that we loved God, but the He loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”- 1 John 4: 10-11 (NIV)
In Chapter 11 (“Be Loved, Then Love”) of How Happiness Happens, Max Lucado tells the story of Andrea Mosconi. For decades, Andrea Mosconi faithfully followed the same routine six mornings every week. Consequently, every day except Sunday the Italian maestro donned suit coat and tie. Then, he proceeded to the City Hall in Cremona, Italy. Once there, he entered the violin museum.
Because most of the violins surpassed three hundred years in age, they needed attentive touching, tuning, and stroking. Otherwise, they’d begin to lose their vibrancy. Therefore, Mr. Mosconi’s job description consisted of two words: play music. So, he played each violin for six or seven minutes.
Just as Mr. Mosconi brought out the best in the antique violins, we possess the opportunity to bring out the best in people. And what, Max asks, produces more joy than that? People need someone willing to take on the greatest of the ‘one another’ commands (1 John 4:11).
However, Pastor Lucado queries, what if you find agape love hard to master? Perhaps, Max suggests, you’re missing a step. Because, the author stresses, love for other begins once you receive the love of Christ. Not by giving love.
Above all, the final phrase of 1 John 4:11 = the essential one — as I have loved you. As a result, Max asks if you’ve let God love you. Take time to think about that question. Have you allowed God’s love to seep into your life’s innermost recesses?
Today’s question: What Bible verses minister God’s agape love to you? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The hammock of God’s affection – settle in”
