True love – we have heard this phrase often, but what does it really mean, and does it really exist?  It is often related to an immature, young fantasy relationship which could be better described as infatuation.  We all know that a consuming, flaming infatuation can fade over a period of time.  Is duration the answer?  I hardly think so when looking at loveless long-term marriages.  The heart throbbing, can’t wait to see you, can’t live without you feelings – is that true love?  The perfect man or the perfect woman – is that a reality?

Accepting imperfections and flaws, mutual trust and respect is the pathway to true love in a marriage.  True love involves sharing dreams and goals.  Being married for fifty-six years, I can verify that true love does exist, and I am grateful for that experience in my life.  But no matter how wonderful your relationship might be, it is doubtful that you would declare it to be perfect.  So that brings me to my next question.  Is there such a thing as perfect love?

That can be answered quickly and easily – yes, there is!  It is found in Jesus, our Lord and Savior.  He loves unconditionally whether or not it is reciprocated.   He loves us when we do right, but He loves also when we are doing wrong.  That might be interpreted as acceptance of our wrong, but that is far from truth.  He loves us but desires for us to make the changes that is found in His Word.  Just as in the true love of a companion whom we seek to please, perfect love from Jesus is reciprocal by us seeking to please Him.

I John 4:16, 17 “ . . . God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God and God in Him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment:  because as he is, so are we in this world.”

During February, the month of love, may you find your true love to be shared to infinity, but more importantly, I pray you find that perfect love with a life lived for Jesus.