“Love is patient; love is kind. Love is not jealous, it does not put on airs, it is not snobbish. Love is never rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not prone to anger; neither does it brood over injuries. Love does not rejoice in what is wrong but rejoices with the truth.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-6
The Bible teaches us so much about love: God’s love for us, our love for each other. We know love. We feel love. We love love. And yet, sometimes, we don’t treat it the way we should. This is beautifully displayed in an old allegory.
Once upon a time all feelings and emotions went to a coastal island for a vacation. They were getting along well and, according to their natures, each was having a good time. Suddenly, a warning of an impending storm was announced, and everyone was advised to evacuate the island immediately. The announcement caused sudden panic as many rushed to their boats. Even damaged boats were quickly repaired and commissioned for duty.
But Love did not wish to flee quickly. Love was concerned with others getting off the island first. Love was, indeed, patient.
But as the clouds darkened, Love realized it was time to leave. Unfortunately, at this later hour, there were no boats to spare. Love looked around.
Just then Prosperity passed by in a big, beautiful boat. Love called, “Prosperity, could you please take me in your boat?”
“No,” replied Prosperity, “my boat is full of precious possessions like gold and silver. There is no place for you.”
A little later, Vanity came by in another very nice boat. Again, Love shouted, “Could you help me, Vanity? I am stranded and need a lift. Please take me with you.”
Vanity responded haughtily, “No, I cannot take you with me. My boat will get soiled with your muddy feet.”
Sorrow passed by after some time. Again, Love asked for help. But it was to no avail. “No, I cannot take you with me. I am so sad. I want to be by myself.”
When Happiness passed by a few minutes later, Love was hopeful and again called for help. But Happiness was so happy that it did not look around and totally missed the needs of anyone else.
Love was starting to feel dejected.
Just then somebody called out, “Come, Love, I will take you with me.”
Love did not know who was being so magnanimous but jumped onto the boat, greatly relieved that she would reach a safe place.
Getting off the boat, Love met Knowledge and asked, “Knowledge, do you know who so generously gave me a lift just when no one else wished to help?”
Knowledge smiled, “Oh, that was Time.”
“And why would Time stop to pick me up and take me to safety?” Love wondered.
Knowledge smiled with deep wisdom and replied, “Because only Time knows your true greatness and what you are capable of. Only Love can bring peace and great happiness in this world.”
Today is a great day to take care of the love in your life.
Don’t you think it’s about time?
Watering the Seeds
How has time helped you value love more?
What do you need to work on the most to have more love in your life?
