read of a halfway house for men released from prison where they could stay until they got a job and somewhere to live. One young man had been in a penal institution for most of his adult life. One day as he sat in the lounge the three-year-old daughter of the couple who ran the shelter crawled up onto his lap, put her arms around his neck and gave him a hug.

With tears running down his cheeks he said, “This is the first time I can remember anyone touching me in love.” A few weeks later he gave his life to Jesus Christ. God used that unique communication of physical contact and love to break the scars of all those years.

This is what sets us apart from the animal kingdom. Most creatures will show a love to their own but beyond that a territorial attitude usually prevents that same love being shown to others. Because our love comes from God we can, if we so choose, reach out to others and receive from others. Some choose not to do so and they are the losers by it.

This then, is the answer to the problems of the world – “Thou shall love the Lord thy God and love thy neighbour as thyself.” That teaching isn’t dated, it’s absolutely relevant today. If we love God with all our heart we will have the capacity to understand and love our neighbours. True love will find an outlet in service – not by merely attending church or even in prayer – but in trying our utmost to prove our love by obeying the will of God.

I once had to counsel a young married couple. All reason had failed. Finally, I asked them to promise that each day for a week they would read together 1 Corinthians chapter 13. Their marriage was restored and they have gone from strength to strength. We must never underestimate the authority of God, the power of His Word and that unique ability granted by grace to us all to to give and receive love. Reach out today.

Thanks to Ron Clarke w4w@keypoint.com.au