There is a love that leaps before thought. A love that says “yes” immediately. There is a love that obliterates every fear and doubt and question with the irrepressible joy of God Himself. This is the love that takes us instantly to the realm of All-is-Possible. Let’s call this love, His Bliss. I love His Bliss – who doesn’t?! It’s a wonderful gift of buoyancy in a weighed-down world. This is an easy way to love.
John’s post on the cost of being a disciple was very thought-provoking. When I am in His Bliss, there is simply no thought of worry or what if. The cost is nothing, and I will leap out into the unknown happily! That is one experience of love, but there is another that came to mind.
I’ve talked before about the role of Gethsemane in embracing the Cross. I’ve even shared a few of my personal experiences with that agony of surrender. But I’ve never talked about it specifically as an act of love. A Gethsemane love is the highest sacrificial love that it is in my power to give, because it is the surrender of my God-given, inviolate will to Him. Every act of obedience that goes against my will, that crosses up what I want, is a Gethsemane.
He threw Himself upon the ground on His face and prayed saying, My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will [not what I desire], but as You will and desire.
Matthew 26:39 Amplified
Jesus saw the Cross looming ahead of Him. He was facing imminent death when He prayed in Gethsemane. He knew exactly what the cost would be, and He said “yes.” For love of His Father, Jesus surrendered His will – His choice – and obeyed God. He did it for love.
The only reason any of us ever surrender our will is because of love. There’s no other reason to hear the train whistle blow and still stay parked on the tracks. Gethsemane love counts the cost down to the last penny, and then says, “Okay, not my will but Yours.”
I dream of children, “nevertheless, not what I will.” I dream of a wife/husband, “nevertheless, not what I will.” I’m lonely and I dream of a friend, “nevertheless, not what I will.” I want to be a famous worship leader, “nevertheless, not what I will.” I want to be a successful _________, “nevertheless, not what I will.” I want an immediate, spectacular healing, “nevertheless, not what I will.” I want justice for this offense, “nevertheless, not what I will.”
Gethsemane love says that God is worth more than what (or who) He’s asking me to die to at that moment. As Martha often says, “Lord, I will NOT lose you over this!” That’s Gethsemane love. It is not an easy love, but it is precious. And priceless! Because without this love, there is no true relationship.
“Those who accept My commandments and obey them are the ones who love Me. And because they love Me, My Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal Myself to each of them.”
John 14:21 NLT
Yes…
Father help me to not be afraid to receive Your love.