This past week, I decided to transition from a Dell computer to an Apple.
This was not going to be easy because technology and I do not get along. In fact, at least once a week, Melissa has to either undo what I’ve done to my computer or explain why my computer won’t do what I want it to. There will be stars in her crown for all the times she has fixed what I have broken.
Allison , who works for Apple, was kind enough to come to the office, evaluate my needs, and help me order the computer that was the best fit.
As we were sitting in my office, looking at the different options, I heard Melissa say to Sam, “I cannot wait to see Allison and Chris arguing over who is going to teach Tom how to use an Apple computer.”
I was flattered to think that two of our members would happily show me the intricacies of using an Apple computer.
But now that I’ve had a little time to think about it, I’m not sure Melissa meant it as a compliment.
There are two opposite ways to take Melissa’s comment. Either she meant both Allison and Chris would both be chomping at the bit to help their pastor learn a new computer or they would be arguing over which one would be forced to go through the frustrating process of dealing with their technologically challenged pastor. There was a lot of ambiguity in her statement.
Life is full of ambiguity and misunderstanding. Take love as an example.
Some people use the love to mean nothing more than a tremendous like. An example would be, “I love Rocky Road ice cream.”
Some use the love to mean a romantic relationship. An example would be, “She was his only true love.”
Some use the love to mean nothing more than the physical act between two people. An example would be the term, “Making love.”
This highest form of love is the type that God has for you. It is called Agape Love.
Christianty.com defines Agape love in this way: “Agape could be defined as charity. However, we often think of charity nowadays as giving away money or things, which don’t encompass all of what agape is about. Agape love is unconcerned with the self and concerned with the greatest good of another. Agape isn’t born just out of emotions, feeling, familiarity, or attraction, but from the will and as a choice. Agape requires faithfulness, commitment, and sacrifice without expecting anything in return.”
Agape love is what God has for you. This is why Paul says, “But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
As you begin this new day, know that the Maker of the Universe loves you more than life itself and would rather die than live without you. And that’s exactly what God did. God loves you.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, in a world where I am seen as nothing more than a consumer or a social security number, remind me of your beautiful love. Help me remember I am of value and worth. I pray my life is a reflection of your love. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
So there is no ambiguity or misunderstanding, know God loves you. You matter. Make your life count.
Just for the record, my new computer will arrive in a few weeks, that’s when I will find out exactly what Melissa meant. I am very curious.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 