Love and Service

When I am driving down the road, sometimes I can't help but think to myself: "I love people."

Then part of me second guesses that thought, because I have been mistreated by people before. Do I love even them? And then I think, "Yes. I do." We all, at some point either realize our weaknesses and need strength. Or maybe someone doesn't, and to me, that person needs love and community the most. I can see how easy it is for God to love us. Even though we can be horrible, terribly creatures who murder and steal, and have no love... in all of our needs and weaknesses... in our depravity, compassion comes so easily. We need the compassion of One who can heal and restore, strengthen and straighten the paths we walk in life. I know that, and still I can't love as well as I want to or need to. God knows that, and God can love us enough. More than enough. And sometimes, I know He gives me insight into that love. For what purpose, I'm not sure. But sometimes... I can see us just how God sees us. And for that I am thankful. For that, I live in wonder and expectation, and am learning to be more observant and ready for what I might be asked to do on a daily basis: to love.


On a totally unrelated note: I'm thinking about our soldiers, deployed or at home, and local law enforcement and firefighters; and all those who give quietly of themselves as a profession to serve and protect other people. Thinking also about their spouses and the Spirit that gives them strength to make sacrifices (like sleeping without a husband because he works the night shift, or staying strong with or without kids during deployments or long work days and nights). I  admire those who are so capable and strong, and even more so I think, those who quietly endure these times. When it's not the easy or most ideal lifestyle, these people still serve. I'm so thankful for them all, and thankful for the people and organizations who so willingly love on them and support them!

-Lindsay