The Value of Love
“Love is never wasted, for its value does not rest upon reciprocity.” (C.S. Lewis)
This quote stirs up a lot in my heart. For starters…
- Where does the value of love rest?
- What is reciprocity, and why might it be a hang-up?
- What about when love feels wasted?
As I ask these questions, I must remember the foundation of love.
“We love because God first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
The Role of Reciprocity
Reciprocity is the practice of exchanging things with others for mutual benefit, especially privileges granted by one country or organization to another. Some of its synonyms are: exchange, trade, trade-off, swap, switch, barter, substitute, return, payment, amends, compensation, restitution, and satisfaction.
Reciprocity can be a hang-up in a relationship if we love only because of the benefits it brings us or just to satisfy our needs and feelings. God gives love freely, and so should we.
Wasted Love
Love is never wasted when our motivation is because God first loved us. Even if our love is abused or outright rejected, it is not wasted when it flows from God’s love for us.
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
