The Love of Christ

 February 13, 2022

On the eve of Valentine’s Day, it is appropriate to write of love. In 2 Corinthians 5:14, Paul says, “The love of Christ compels us.” Paul is defending his ministry; though hard pressed, often delivered to death, persecuted and struck down (4:8-9), he continues to work,compelled by the love of Christ.

But is it Christ’s love for him, or his love for Christ which presses upon him? A good case can be made for either interpretation. Perhaps it’s a deliberate vagueness here because both are needed.

Christ’s love for me is the foundation of anything I could possibly do, or want to do for him, but it by itself, doesn’t guarantee a worthy response from me. If his love for me hasn’t engendered a response of love in me, I will not feel compelled to do anything.

I am often convicted by these words. I have done so little for Christ. But I would do nothing at all were it not for his love pushing me to love him in return, which often means doing things that as a certified introvert I would not do on my own. I am not good at sharing my faith; I miss opportunities, and left to my own devices, would hole up in my own little world. I wish I were more adept at evangelism, but apart from the love of Christ compelling me, I would do nothing at all. I am compelled to contradict my nature, often feebly, rarely ably; but I keep at it because of the love of Christ.

Lord Jesus, may your love ignite my own!