What's In A Word?

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another." 
John 13:34 (NIV)

When was the last time the word "love" rolled off your tongue?

This morning I told my wife Teresa I loved her before leaving the house–something I've done consistently for over 40 years of marriage. It can become so routine that we sometimes wonder: does this small, overused word still feel meaningful?

We use the word “love” for everything from ice cream preferences to lifelong commitments. But when Jesus commands us to "love one another," He's calling us to something far deeper than simple verbal affirmation.

True love reveals itself in consistent action. When your spouse faces illness, love means showing up at doctor's appointments. When your children experience heartbreak, love means listening without judgment. When your coworker struggles, love means shouldering their burden alongside them.

Today, challenge yourself to demonstrate love beyond words. Send that encouraging text. Make that difficult phone call to reconnect. Forgive that lingering offense. Choose one relationship and express love through tangible action.

Remember, God didn’t just say He loved you–He demonstrated it through Jesus. Your actions speak volumes more than your words ever could.

Prayer: Father, Thank You for consistently showing Your love through action through Jesus’ sacrifice and through Your loving care each day. Help me love the same way–move beyond simply saying "I love you" to demonstrating love in tangible ways today. In Jesus' name, Amen.