7 Things in 7 Years: You Are Loved
No service at Harvest is concluded without the 'you are loved' catchphrase. It can sometimes cause a gentle simper amongst those who are new to the church, but the sentiment is far from contrived. I really do feel loved.
Love is very often misunderstood, and indeed, it's true Interpretation is usually lost in a context of hallmark cards and rom-coms. I confess that I can grow jaded in a world where love is ubiquitous. So what makes the love of Harvest different?
Harvest strive to demonstrate Godly love. The love of God is- in many ways- pretty far removed from what the world would identify as love. Our definition of love is subjective and tainted by our sin. God's love is pure: He is love. Some people would consider love to be an attitude adopted by those of us who are somewhat naive and tender hearted. But I've learned that there is nothing that requires more strength than to love people the way God loves.
God loves people who don't deserve it. Comparing his infinite holiness to our pitiful brokenness is enough to understand why we don't deserve His love. God owes us nothing, and yet He loves us; not because of who we are but in spite of who we are. To know this kind of love makes it impossible for me to justify discriminating who I choose to demonstrate love to.
God's love is entirely selfless, patient and forgiving. I can recount so many occasions where this kind of love has been demonstrated to me at Harvest. People have cooked meals and delivered them to my door after I've gave birth. People have cared for my children. People have lifted me up in prayer during my dark times. People have been brave enough to tell me the truth even when it has been hard to hear. People have been patient with me and forgiven me when I've been difficult. People have listened to my problems and not used them to fuel gossip. People love me regardless of whether or not I deserve it.
Harvest don't always love perfectly, because as humans, we can't. But because of the cross, we try with all our might. Our love isn't superficial to gain your approval, it is a profoundly fervent love that stems from the concern for your soul.
If I haven't loved you in this way in the past, please forgive me. If I can love you in better ways, please tell me. If I can pray for you in any way, please just ask me. No matter who you are. If you want to see how we demonstrate this at Harvest, please come - you are so welcome.