Love is not just a pretty word, but a way of life. The image of God is nothing less than the love of God within us.

Sometimes, I wonder if I’m living in the shadow of who I am created to be, or possibly a shadow of the complete person God has created. Like everyone else, I am part of this great creation of God. As human beings we are blessed with the Image of God as part of humanity’s natural being. The image I write of is the love of God imbedded within us. Embraced, the image ensures we are not mere shadows but a source of light for the world.

Unfortunately, we, the people God created and blessed appear to have filled much of this world, and ourselves, with a hate, violence and greed that threatens life and attempts to dominate creation. I sometimes wonder what have we done with the love of God? Has humanity buried this beautiful and powerful gift deep within our souls? Are we afraid to let the loving presence of our creator shine from within and guide us as a people? Life is not easy, and there are some who make living out of the love of God more difficult. In word and action, they appear to have opted to live out their lives feeding off the evil that opposes God’s love and grace.

Yet, this is far from the whole story, the complete story, and certainly not the final outcome of humanity. God’s love cannot be extinguished. It is the diamond beneath the soil waiting to be unearthed to reflect the many colors of God’s light and love. It shines in the goodness that comes to light in our lives. In our loving and caring acts that reach beyond us. And there is so much more.

Join us Sunday as we look at what love really is and the power it holds.

May the Peace and Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you!

Pastor Rick