Learning cursive is like learning a new way to express familiar letters, transforming them into a more elegant and flowing script. Similarly, the concept of love, a fundamental human emotion, is elevated to a higher form in Christianity. Just as individual letters are joined together in cursive, love in a Christian context intertwines with faith and is expressed through actions inspired by Christ’s example.
The Old Testament commandments instructed people to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18, Deuteronomy 6:5). These verses laid the foundation for understanding love as a core principle of faith. However, Jesus introduced a new dimension to this understanding.
Jesus’ commandment, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another,” (John 13:34) expands upon the existing concept of love. While loving your neighbor as yourself remains important, Christ’s love provides a higher standard, a model for Christians to emulate.
This elevated form of love isn’t simply a feeling; it’s an action verb. It requires selflessness, sacrifice, and forgiveness, reflecting the way Christ loved humanity. It means extending grace to others, even when it’s difficult, just as Christ offered unconditional love and forgiveness.
Just as cursive writing enhances the beauty of individual letters, Christ’s command transforms the concept of love into something more profound. It’s a continuous, flowing expression of faith, connecting believers to each other and to God. This love, inspired by Christ’s example, is a defining characteristic of Christian life, a testament to the transformative power of faith. It is a journey of growth and learning, continually striving to love as Christ loved.
