Article July 13, 1935 Issue

Love

BEATRICE DE F. BARTLE

To what sublime heights Christ Jesus elevated the human concept of love! He lived and exemplified the love that is not a mere sentiment or protestation of devotion, but is expressed in service, in sacrifice, in compassion and mercy; a love that makes loyalty sacred and true ideals practical; a love, reflecting Love, so immeasurably wide as to embrace all mankind, so strong as to overleap all barriers.

Even as when the Nazarene walked on the earth, there is the need today for this love which reverences all that is good and noble, for it is impossible to dissociate from love the beautiful attributes of this quality, spiritually understood. Therefore, if the love we express does not hold something of the divine, if it is not generous, unselfish, pure, and tender, then it is not love, but its counterfeit. And if we would follow in the footsteps of the Way-shower, our sense of love must be practical. We not only must hold it in our hearts, but by manifesting it in every detail of our daily human experience must live it. So will love find expression in unfailing courtesy, kindness, and utmost consideration for all. Then will cease hypocritical judging of another, for surely to condemn, to dislike, to criticize, to be intolerant towards others, is only to make oneself miserable and small. Love reflected in the understanding heart entirely negates the spirit of hatred, bitterness, and resentment.

How fraught with infinite compassion were those words uttered by the Master to the woman taken in adultery, "Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more"! One can readily see how different might have been the story of the Magdalen had Jesus spurned her expression of repentance; but the Saviour never broke the "bruised reed." He who dwelt on the heights was ever ready to befriend and succor those who had touched the depths; to pour into their wounds the healing balm of love and mercy. If he, therefore, who was without sin judged not—dare we? What can we ever know of another's heartbreaking struggles or of his bitter remorse? Shall ours be the hand to thrust an erring one deeper into the pit, or shall ours be the hand to hold him up until he is able to stand more firmly?

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
True Substance
July 13, 1935
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit