Love is...

Love is a demonstrative word. It is an action word, but used as a noun it embodies action. 1 Cor. 13 gives us a picture of love in action. "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." Each one of these words required an action on God's part toward us, and requires an action on our part toward God and others.
God DEMONSTRATED His love for us by stretching His arms on and old rugged cross. (Jn. 3:16) He expects us to demonstrate our love for Him and for others by "getting our hands dirty," ; by doing what He has called us to do. "If you love me, you will obey what I command." John 14:45
Talk is cheap. Any of us can say "I love you," but the true demonstration of love requires that we make a commitment and follow through with it. We may not be required to lay our lives on the line to demonstrate our love, but most definitely we should be willing. 'This is how you can show your love to me: Everywhere we go, say of me, "He is my brother." ' " Genesis 20:12-14
This little poem expresses my thoughts. My mother read this to me as a young child, and it really made an impression on me. I am sure there have been many times I didn't do this, but even as a young child this painted a vivid picture of the relationship between love and obedience.
I LOVE YOU, MOTHER, by Joy Allison
"I love you, mother," said little John;
Then, forgetting his work, his cap went on,
And he was off to the garden swing,
Leaving his mother the wood to bring.

I love you, mother," said little Nell,
"I love you more than tongue can tell."
Then she teased and pouted half the day
Till her mother rejoiced when she went to play.

"I love you, mother," said little Fan.
"Today I'll help you all I can."
To the cradle then she did softly creep
And rocked the baby till it fell asleep.

Then stepping softly she took the broom
And swept the floor and dusted the room.
Busy and happy all day was she,
Helpful and cheerful as a child should be.

"I love you, mother," again they said,
Three little children going to bed.
How do you think the mother guessed,
Which of them really loved her best?

I wonder if God knows which one of us loves Him best? I suspect He does!