LOVE

The theme for sacrament meeting talks Sunday was love.  Dave Maller effectively introduced and concluded his talk with a quote from a letter written by a recently deceased political leader.  Dave said he did not necessarily agree with his political views, but he did agree with the concluding paragraph of his letter,
"My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world."  I agree too.

Love is the all-encompassing value that defines successful relationships.  In the bible in Matthew 22: 35-40, the Saviour was asked by a lawyer what was the greatest commandment.  The Jewish religious leaders spent much time debating this question.  The lawyer thought to catch Jesus in a conundrum and make him look bad in front of the crowds.  Instead He replied that we must first love God, and then our neighbours as ourselves. 

Love God, self and everyone.  This is not something most of us will accomplish while on this earth, but it is worthwhile working towards.  I appreciate that a politician writing a letter three days before he died of cancer, identified the importance of love in his life.  Put into action, love becomes service to others: mothers sacrificing their time for their children, fathers working and playing with their children, and all of us helping those less fortunate with many kinds of assistance and with a listening ear.

Love is an action word.  This action brings inner rewards of joy and satisfaction of knowing we are making a difference in the lives of others; even a positive difference.  In this world of challenges and diversions, I am glad we have God's word in the scriptures that reminds us of the path that brings us happiness - to recognize His love and return it, and to love those around us.