The meaning of words can change. Did you know that nice used to mean foolish or simple? Or that awful used to describe something full of awe?

And then there’s the word love. A word that we use for pizza, puppies, playlists — and for a lifelong vow.

What does it really mean?

Scripture says: “Love keeps no record of wrongs.” (1 Corinthians 13:5) It’s not just love when it’s easy. It’s not just love when it’s returned. But love when it’s least deserved.

It’s not a feeling. It’s a choice. It’s not instinct. It’s forgiveness.

It reminds me of a song that my mom used to play in the car: “Tie a Yellow Ribbon.” A man returns from prison, unsure if he’ll be welcomed back into his home. He says to his wife, who has had to take care of the home all by herself: “If you forgive me for leaving you, tie a yellow ribbon around the old oak tree.”

Now, when the bus rolls into town, he doesn’t see one ribbon. He sees 100. That’s love. It’s not earned. It’s not deserved. But given freely, given fully and given joyfully.

That’s the kind of love God gives us. He didn’t tie a ribbon to a tree. He gave His Son on a cross. “This is real love. Not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.” (1 John 4:10)

We don’t earn it. We certainly don’t deserve it. And that’s exactly when we need it most.

So today, as you have been filled with that love, let that same love flow out of you. Love like that. Not because others have earned it, but because Christ first loved you.

“We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

Prayer
Jesus, thank You for loving us when we least deserve it. Help us love others the same way without keeping score, without holding back. Teach us to forgive quickly, to serve freely, and to love deeply. Let our lives reflect the love we receive from You. Amen.

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