Limits of Love: Action

Of all the definitions of love, one of the more promising descriptions is that love is action.  There is a sentiment that emphasizes that “love does” over “love is.”  I’ve seen plaques with the words, “Love is an action verb.”  And yet I think this definition fails to capture the essence of love.  There are many things that are active but not necessarily loving.  Love is a force that creates action, but love is not action per se.  Our actions are the result or the outcome of love.

All that said, I think love can hardly exist without action.  The kind of love that is described in 1 Corinthians 13 is a love that creates movement.  It is an energy so powerful that action can’t help but follow.  Love serves, prays, encourages, challenges, and blesses.  So even while love is more than action, action is an essential part of true love.  Take a moment to think about the people you love.  How is your love for them creating action on your part?  How does that love get expressed actively?  Today is a great day to put your love into action!