EphesiansShembull

What’s one thing we are all searching for? The Beatles had a clear answer, “All we need is love.” To quote one of the great lyrical poets of my generation Ryan Tedder, “I just want to be wanted, I could use a little love sometimes. I just need to be needed, I like to know I'm crossin' someone's mind.” And what if that Someone was the creator of the universe who intimately formed you and breathed life into you? When I read these verses, that is what I see. God wants me. God loves me. And Paul, the author, doesn’t just want you to know that truth the way you know answers to trivia questions. He believes God wants us to experience His love, the 3D movie kind of experience where you’re immersed and engaged.

I asked one of my friends recently how she experiences God’s love, and her response was “In the small requests - for a green light when I’m running late, a close parking spot, or a short line at Chipotle. When I ask God for these silly wants and He answers, His love feels close and genuine.” On the other side of that, I’ve been experiencing God’s love more when I feel hurt or slighted by others. Telling Him how I feel, and dumping my anger and frustration on Him often leaves me feeling heard and comforted. I’ve been praying this prayer in those moments, “Here is my momentary hurt. I offer it to you. Take it; heal it, and turn it to eternal good.” (from Every Moment Holy liturgies)

How do you experience God’s love?

Prayer Points

• Ask the Holy Spirit to remind you of God’s love for you if you’re having a hard time knowing or believing this truth.
• Thank God for His unconditional love that can be seen in small and big ways in your life, as well as the lives of your friends and family (sometimes it’s easier to see it in others, so feel free to start there).
• Be honest with God about what you want and need today.