Love Is His Legacy

by Tina Y. Gerber - McCurley

Would you believe love and mental health are interconnected? Love is a fundamental human need, consequently, feeling love can lead to lower stress levels, better immune function, and, doctors say, it can even lower the risk of chronic illness. Love is present in our families, with friends, and even in our communities. Feeling loved and being able to love others can greatly increase happiness and quality of life. This has been increasingly difficult to show being without a vehicle.

We were Blessed to have a friend visit from Toronto, who we haven't seen in a long time. We both needed to hear his words of wisdom, support, and love. The scripture he shared really spoke to us, it was from Psalms 103. We know human love can't fix a person, but it certainly helps with overall physical and mental health. There are many ways we express love: romantic, a love for family and friends, a love for your pets, and it can appear to extend to specific places, objects and even your favourite activities. Imagine going through challenges and struggles without someone to lean on, however, when there is actual love, we can find through it strength and resilience. Love is described as the most powerful force in the universe. It's not a coincidence, the Bible says, “God is Love,” in 1 John 3:16b in any translation.

Love shapes our lives in ways we may not always recognize, influencing our thoughts, behaviours, and well-being. Love is about connection, and a sense of belonging, fulfilling our most basic human needs. A loving and stable relationship can improve a person's ability to manage stress and decrease anxiety and depression. We can offer love when someone is going through a difficult time, with a listening ear we can lift another up and show our appreciation and support.

The reality of God's Love is central to Christian theology and is profoundly expressed through the gift of His son, Jesus Christ. This divine Love is not merely an abstract idea but is demonstrated through the concrete actions and promises of God throughout the Bible.

It's important to tell your partner, parents, and children how much you love and appreciate them. There are so many opportunities to appreciate someone you love. My hubby shows his love when he does the cooking, preparing me a home cooked meal. He often makes my favourite 'breakfast in bed' and surprises me with a hot cup of tea. Sometimes we take the wonderful and helpful things our partners do for us for granted. Telling your partner how much you love and appreciate them is a great way to express love and show your gratitude.