How do we know and show love? Songwriters wonder. A singer belts out a rock ballad from my youth, “I want to know what love is. I want you to show me.” Who can forget fiery-eyed Eliza in My Fair Lady singing, “If you’re in love, show me!”
John tells us how we can know love and show love in his first letter. In some previous reading of this book, I put a simple pen mark under the word “know” everywhere it is found in this letter. John certainly talks a lot about love to his readers. But his primary verb seems to be “know.” This is how we know what love is . . . How? Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. God didn’t just tell us he loved us. He showed us on the cross.
Jesus’ example of love sets the pattern for our relationships. If we believe Jesus laid down his life then we must lay down our lives for those whom we love. Love has material implications. If we are willing to die for another, we will certainly give money to another. Talk is cheap. We show our love through actions and truth.
Fifty-year-old Wesley Autry dove onto a subway track to save Cameron Hollopeter, a twenty-year-old man from an oncoming train. Later Autry received a free trip to Disney World for his courageous actions. Having been to Disney World, I would simply say that trip is not enough to inspire anyone to risk their lives. Only love makes us take action.
Our world is still waiting for our Prince to come. Where is the one who loves us faithfully, unconditionally, and completely? His name is Jesus. Once we have been loved by Jesus, we not only know we are loved but we show his love to others actively. Carefully consider: how can you show somebody that you love them today? Think of an action you can take to show sacrificial love. Don’t just think about it or talk about it. Show them!
