Love Hurts
by Joanne Ellison
02.25.19
02.25.19

I am writing this blog with a heavy heart. My Dad is dying and it is so very sad for all of us. He has been a remarkable Father in many ways and letting go is one of the most difficult things I have had to do in my lifetime. What I realized today, is that love hurts. If we love someone, we will feel both euphoria and pain. Love is a complex emotion, but for sure it is worth it to love someone deeply than never to have loved.

As we consider our journey with Christ together, seeking ways to make more space for spiritual growth, a priority must be to love. Jesus said the foremost commandment was to love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul, strength, and mind and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

Friends, love is the currency of the kingdom of God. Jesus came, offering His life because He loved the world. Love is painful but so worth it.

Some of you reading this are struggling with having loved someone and the relationship has gone dark. Or you have been betrayed. Perhaps you did not know the love of an earthly Father. But you can be sure that the love of God for you is so extraordinary, so kind and merciful, that His love will sustain you through all love’s lack or love’s pain.

There is a story in the Bible that sheds light on the love of Jesus. It is one where a woman is caught in adultery. The law stated that if you were an adulterer you must be stoned. The woman accused was brought to Jesus. It was a trap to see what Jesus would do. Would He break God’s law? But Jesus demonstrated a higher law– the law of love. He said “let him who is without sin, cast the first stone.” He leveled the playing field. One by one, they had to leave (because, of course, they had all sinned). And who was left? The woman in adultery and Jesus. It was in essence the woman and perfect LOVE who remained standing. And in that moment she was transformed.

What about us? Jesus in our midst, LOVE incarnate…. Love hurts, love covers. But love is worth it.

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10 Comments

  1. Lynn Adams

    Praying for you and your family for God’s grace and peace during this difficult time and the months to follow.

    Reply
    • joanneellison

      Thank you so much Lynn. Dad is an amazing man and Father. He had a good day today. Every day I treasure. Appreciate your prayers.

      Reply
  2. Susan Gaillard

    Joanne, I am so sad to hear about your father. I know the pain you are experiencing, having lost my own father a year ago. Daddy greatly admired your father, both as a physician and as a friend. I am imagining their happy reunion soon to take place in heaven. Sending you love during this difficult time.

    Reply
    • joanneellison

      Thank you sweet Susan. Yes they were good buddies. Daddy seems better today. He fell several days ago and has been going downhill since then. Every day is precious. I know you understand having lost your Dad. They will be reunited:) Appreciate your prayers.

      Reply
  3. brenda Clark

    Continued prayers for you and your family. Thanks for posting the picture. It is a beautiful photo and you all look so happy.
    We are here for you. Love and blessings,
    Brenda Clark

    Reply
    • joanneellison

      Thank you Brenda! He is one amazing man and Father.

      Reply
  4. Deborah Mitchell

    May the love and grace of God, sustain you and your family. May he wrap you all in his embrace . We will continue to pray for the family.

    Reply
    • joanneellison

      Thank you so much Deborah. Really appreciate your prayers!

      Reply
  5. Dianne

    Joanne
    I am so very sorry. There are no words. You have written them all. What a wonderful gift …. to have an adoring father and to be loved so fully! ????????

    Reply
    • joanneellison

      Thank you Dianne. God has given me the best gift ever in my Dad. He actually had a better day today:)

      Reply

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