Page 210 - Radical Love by Linda Robinson_FEB2025
P. 210

RADICAL LOVE



          Michael Molino, in his book The Spiritual Guide, writes:


          “A  great  deal  of  suffering  awaits  us  if  we  follow  the  Lord  as  we
          should.”


          And this has certainly been my own personal experience. However,
          there is a wonderful flip side to the trials and challenges we face: the

          abundance of the Holy Spirit’s overcoming strength, fruit, and power

          that we bear. As we yield to the work of the Cross in our lives, there
          will be a bountiful harvest—the first-fruits of which are for the delight

          of the Lord, because it is His work of grace within us that has produced
          these fruits. He will then use the remainder for the benefit of those He

          brings across our path.

          Notice also how the plants and spices being referred to are not just

          common varieties found in every green space. They are exotic, fragrant,

          and out of the ordinary.

          Recently, as I was sprinkling cinnamon on my cappuccino, I read these

          words on the back of the packet:


          “The word ‘spice’ comes from a Latin word meaning ‘special.’ Ancient
          spices were once so highly prized that wars were fought over them.”


          This is how the Lord sees us. We are exceedingly precious and highly
          esteemed by Him. And because of that, He was prepared to go to war

          on our behalf, even to the point of death. This awesome truth should be
          sufficient for us to allow Him full access to the gardens of our hearts—




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