As the Father loves me, so I also love you. (John 15:9)
How can it be, Lord, that the way you love me is just the same as the way the Father loves you? How can it be that the love that permeates the Trinity itself is the same love you pour out on me? It’s too much for me to absorb!
Sometimes I think of your love as a kindly, patient, forgiving love when I think of my own unworthiness. And it is that—but it is so much more than just an expression of your forgiveness of my sins!
Lord, the love that the Father has for you is immense! It is creative and life-giving, always flowing, unchanging yet ever new. It is the same love that you showed when you created the world. It’s a love that imparts to your creation goodness and harmony and generosity. I am amazed that this is how you love me, too. You created me because you wanted me to share in your love and generosity. You created me because you wanted me to reflect your goodness to the world. And you didn’t stop there. Day after day, you are constantly pouring your love into me—even when I can’t feel it or see it or touch it!
When I think of how the Father looks at you, Jesus, I am speechless. I can try to imagine the Father gazing on you with deep pleasure and joy, but words fail me. And then to think that you, Jesus, look at me with the same love, seeing the goodness I was created to have in your image, seeing your approval of every step I take toward you—I can only bask in this love, filled with wonder and awe.
Thank you, Jesus! In your extravagant love, you have brought me into the love of the Trinity! You have given me a share in the divine life that you experience with your Father in heaven. You have expanded my horizons so that I can see beyond myself, even into your perfect eternity. I know it’s not much when compared with your love for me. But still, I can’t help saying it: I love you, Jesus!
“Lord, expand my heart and mind so that I can grasp, even if only a little, the vast love you have for me!”
Acts 15:7-21; Psalm 96:1-3, 10