9 Over the Top
OVER THE TOP
I had just finished packing my bags. Ken had packed his things, too, including his rods and reels. We had to be away from one another for several days, I on a speaking engagement, and he on a fishing trip. We knew we’d really miss each other.
Wheeling through the living room that afternoon, I was surprised to see a beautiful red rose in a bud vase on the table. That Ken! So thoughtful. Moving into the bedroom to gather my things, I spotted another rose in a bud vase on my dresser. I was shocked. I glanced into the bathroom and to my amazement yet another red rose—a fresh, delicate little bud—adorned the counter.
By the third rose, I have to admit my excitement turned a little sour. It wasn’t that I didn’t appreciate his gifts, it was just that … well, both he and I were ready to leave. Nobody but Scruff, our miniature schnauzer, would be in the house to enjoy such lovely flowers. Expensive flowers at that, I pointed out.
Ken just gave me a big hug, melting all my protests.
As I went off on that speaking trip, I thought of the quality that marks the ministry of love. And that is its sheer extravagance. Love is extravagant in the price it is willing to pay, the time it is willing to give, the hardships it is willing to endure, and the strength it is willing to spend.
Love never thinks in terms of “how little,” but always in terms of “how much.”
Love gives, love knows, and loves lasts.
And that is what God has given to us. The quality that marks the ministry of God’s love for us is the sheer extravagance of giving His most priceless and precious gift … His Son. When the Father considered ransoming sinful, wretched men and women such as us, I don’t think He thought in terms of how little He should give, but how much. Our hearts should—must—overflow with thankfulness and gratitude for all our Father has given. He has made the way open to intimacy with His great heart.
When I returned home from my trip, I got an added surprise. Those little buds were in full bloom, brightening my home with their extravagance … and a lingering fragrance of love.
A Step Closer
And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you’ll be able to take in with all Christians the extravagant dimensions of Christ’s love. Reach out and experience the breadth!… Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God.
EPHESIANS 3:17–19, THE MESSAGE
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!
1 JOHN 3:1
Because He has poured His love into our souls—
up to the rim and brimming over!—
let that extravagant love splash on someone near you today.
Go beyond the expected—right over the top.
And do it as unto the God who has extravagantly loved you.