What is Love?

God's got a funny sense of humor.  I had a conversation with someone yesterday and she asked me, "What have you learned about yourself recently?"  After reflecting, I said, "That I am well loved by many people."

Now, you may be saying, DUH, Mary Martha. Look at your family, your friends, your neighbors. Of course you are well loved! You are and have always been surrounded by people that love you. I think it is one of those head and heart things. You know, but do you really "know" it.  Being someone who appears to be "even-keeled" and not easily ruffled it is easy to plow through life very independently not allowing others in to experience life with me.  It also doesn't allow me the chance to "be enjoyed" by others. (A phrase that makes me cringe, but I am growing to understand it more and more).  All of this means that yes, I know I am loved. I have heard I am loved. Do I really get it though?

In the midst of transitions, hard summers and confusing events the Lord has placed people in my life that love me well. They have been sweet reminders of how much He loves me.  Their love for me is just a small glimpse of how deeply the Lord does care for and love me.  Yes, I am just a wretched sinner that is undeserving and yet I am more loved and cared for than I ever deserved or imagine.

I have been blessed by friends who call and leave sweet voicemails and text messages.
Friends that send me care packages. [Yes, cookies were included in this at one point =)]

Friends that send me flowers.
Parents that send me care packages and surprise bouquets of flowers!

Friends that cook amazing meals, buy me gatorade when I'm sick, sit with me, cry and laugh with me, and bless me with their sweet children.
Friends that send me cards.
Friends that encourage me with their words when I need it.
Friends that just let me be.

I am surrounded by such a sweet community of friends that love and care for me. God was sweet in reminding me yesterday, Valentine's Day, how much he does love me through these many relationships that I am in.  It was a love filled and blessed day.

Someone asked me today how I was doing. My response,  Really well, Really loved.


[9] Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. [10] Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. [11] Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. [12] Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. [13] Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
(Romans 12:9-13 ESV)