Crazy Love

A comedian got a few laughs by suggesting that love ranks on the “crazy scale” just after insanity and psychosis. I heard it and snickered for a moment before realizing the truth behind it. Love defies logic, unless getting hurt is high on your list of priorities.

The problem is that we love imperfect people and imperfect things that are bound to fail us. But, then, that’s all we have. Things break or get worn out. People forget or get tired. No created thing or being is 100% reliable.

Lucy and John both recognize the lingering pain and inevitable challenges they face. Entering into a relationship, Lucy noted, means accepting the possibility of losing your partner. “If you are lucky enough,” she said, “you will be devastated when they die. Willingly entering that feels gutsy, but what else could you choose?” – When Breath Becomes Air

Football fans know disappointment, too. But, every season we follow the hype and cheer for a team whose season will end in a loss.

There’s a great deal of risk in love. The return isn’t guaranteed. It’s not even probable, if you’re into statistics. So, the comedian makes us laugh, but maybe this isn’t so funny. Love often hurts. It even hurts God Himself, because He loves His imperfect creation.

But, love also heals.

The love of another human lifts spirits, gives hope and inspires peace for a time. The love of God does all of that into eternity. His love never fails, never gives up and never runs out(to quote Jesus Culture), which is absolutely necessary when we keep pouring our love into the other cracked pots of creation. God continues to pour out His healing love into us.

When God tells us to love our neighbor, He isn’t asking us to feel a particular way, but to act. He’s telling us to pour out our love for the sake of that other human, and expect nothing in return. Love doesn’t need gratitude and it doesn’t get compensation. Loving others doesn’t fill your heart and soul. Being loved does.

God does His part, loving us perfectly, unconditionally, and unendingly. It sounds crazy, but it’s true. Today, as you dare to love, may God’s love fill you to overflowing.