To be intimate is to know someone deeply, and that happens only when we let down our guard and allow people to see deep into our hearts.
I was standing at the small, sliding window at the dental office, giving the receptionist all of the information required of a new patient.
There was a second person behind the counter, her back to me. I could see by the uniform that she was a hygienist.
As she turned, I could also see that she was tall, slender and gorgeous.
A minute later, the hygienist was leading me to an exam room. That day I became her patient. Two years later, I became her husband.
When Lori and I met, I had had enough of relationships. There was a big “Do Not Enter” sign posted on my heart. I was afraid to love.
Being in love is risky. You can get your heart broken.
As Lori and I spent time together, we got to know each other. As we got to know each other, we allowed ourselves to be vulnerable. In time, the chance to love again triumphed over fear.
During my lifetime, I have learned much about love. One thing I know is that true love requires vulnerability. That’s because true love is rooted in intimacy. To be intimate is to know someone deeply, and that happens only when we let down our guard and allow people to see deep into our hearts.
My wife knows me better than anyone else on this earth. I trust her with my biggest fears, because I know I can. She is my sounding board for everything. She is so deeply invested in me and I in her that we are one, as much as two people can be.
So, how do you know? How do you know when it’s love?
I think the best way is to ask the heart. What does the heart feel?
For me, it’s the excitement I feel when I hear Lori’s car come up the driveway.
It’s what I feel when I’m engrossed in my work, and she walks in and kisses the top of my head.
It’s what I feel when I see her lost in worship.
It’s what I feel as I watch her talk to her beloved chickens, or work in her garden.
It’s what I feel when she wants to be held.
It’s what I felt when we had no money and she put her hands on my cheeks, looked me in the eyes and said, “I’ve never been happier. I love my life.”
I am in love with my wife. I am sure of it.
But, there is one who loves her more than I do.
He is the one who willingly accepted a death sentence that should have been hers, yours and mine.
He is the one who could have saved himself, but refused because saving us meant more than anything to him.
He is the one who, because of his love for us, was tortured with whips that tore his flesh, who was beaten to the point that even his family and close friends didn’t recognize him, then suffered an excruciating and humiliating death.
He is the one who will never leave nor forsake you.
He is the one who knows you better than any person ever could.
He is the one who is waiting with open arms, who desires to hold you.
His name is Jesus.
The Bible says:
Everyone who confesses that Jesus is God’s Son participates continuously in an intimate relationship with God. We know it so well, we’ve embraced it heart and soul, this love that comes from God. God is love. When we take up permanent residence in a life of love, we live in God and God lives in us. (1 John 4:15-17 The Message)
Jesus wants you to experience the depth of his love, to embrace it heart and soul. He already knows you, intimately. He wants you to know him, to trust him, confide in him. Will you be vulnerable for Jesus? Will you surrender to his love?
His love will never fail you. His love will never break your heart. Never ever. It is yours for eternity, your permanent residence.
Take down the Do Not Enter sign from your heart. He is waiting for you. He is right beside you. You can know his love today. All you need to do is turn and fall into his arms.
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