How do We Show Our Love?

Because her mom, a teacher, was still on Christmas break, Sarai had not seen her babysitter for two weeks. A curious and happy one-year-old, Sarai now reveled in the attention from her four older siblings, who were also enjoying their little vacation. Though tiny for her fourteen months, Sarai was mentally a little giant.

She emphatically spoke exactly what she did or did not want.

When the break was almost over, Marguerite, Sarai’s babysitter, came by for a New Year’s visit. Seeing her, Sarai abandoned her toys, bypassed her beloved mother, and rushed to Marguerite, who joyfully picked her up.

Then in an action that spoke volumes, Sarai nestled her head on Marguerite’s shoulder and would not be moved. It was a silent, yet vocal, “I love you, Marguerite. I am overjoyed to see you again.” Sarai had shown her love.

We have so many options for expressing our love.

We can vocalize, or like Sarai, we can demonstrate our love by our actions. Yet, some children and adults lament about never hearing their parents say “I love you” or even expressing it in their actions.

Many husbands and wives live a loveless marriage, longing —no pining— for the least token, the slightest utterance of the fact that they are loved and cherished. How much does it cost to speak and demonstrate that love? How life-changing could it be in a family where such expression is missing! But could the same be true for expressing our love for our Savior? He demonstrated His love for us with the ultimate sacrifice —His death on the cross. Then He clearly said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” As we demonstrate our love, are we spending time in His house of worship, or are we worshiping other gods? Are we reaching out to Him early in the morning and throughout the day, or are we reaching for the remote control? Are we enjoying the gifts He has prepared for us —the lakes, the forest, the fragrant flowers— or are we giving all our time to electronic gadgets and shopping malls? How do we show our love? Every day God demonstrates His love for us —He awakens us. He has given us eyes to read and minds to think.

He has promised to protect and guide us.

Now, how do we show our love?

Annette Walwyn Michael