02/20/2025
Recently, our pastor shared a thought-provoking sermon about how love has the power to transform our world. This message resonated deeply with me and led me to reflect on the true essence of love. What does it really mean to love?
The word "love" is ubiquitous. There are over 100 million songs that include the word "love," and we encounter it countless times each day—whether it’s a family member expressing affection, a radio lyric, a friend’s casual remark, or even a stranger at the store professing their love for cookies. Yet, despite its frequency, the true meaning of love often remains elusive.
I’ve come to see love as more than just a feeling—it’s an action word. Watching the devastating fires in Los Angeles recently has been heartbreaking. While I try to limit how much news plays in our house, I do seek out stories of hope and positivity. In times of disaster or crisis, it’s inspiring to witness the extraordinary acts of kindness that emerge. People step up, demonstrating love in tangible ways. These moments warm my heart but also leave me wondering: why does it often take a crisis for us to show love to our neighbors? Life’s busyness may cause us to overlook opportunities to express love until a need becomes urgent. But imagine a world where love was given freely, proactively—not just in response to hardship.
February, often referred to as the "month of love" due to Valentine’s Day, is a perfect time to reflect on this. While I appreciate the sentiment behind the holiday, I sometimes find myself rolling my eyes at its commercialization. Flowers, cards, and gifts feel less meaningful when they’re tied to a date on the calendar. Love shouldn’t be reserved for specific occasions; it should be expressed spontaneously, as a genuine outpouring of care and affection.
This year, let’s commit to being proactive about love instead of reactive. Don’t wait for a crisis or a holiday to remind someone they are valued. Show kindness, extend grace, and express love—not because it’s expected, but because it’s transformative. By embracing love as an everyday action, we have the potential to create a ripple effect that can truly make a difference in our world.
Publisher’s Note
“Lead with Love Every Day”
By: Kristin Lunsford
February 2025
Jacksonville Real Producers
