5-Star Love
Love runs farther when we choose grace over preference.
Verse:
“Love one another as I have loved you… By this everyone will know that you are My disciples.” (John 13:34–35)
In the movie Pretty Woman, Richard Gere plays Edward Lewis — a wealthy corporate raider used to first-class treatment wherever he goes. Meanwhile, Julia Roberts portrays Vivian Ward, whose experience is often the exact opposite. The contrast is striking, but it reflects a reality in our world: people with power, influence, or status frequently receive better treatment than others.
That may be common culturally, but it isn’t God’s design.
Jesus consistently modeled something different — treating those overlooked or marginalized with dignity, compassion, and respect. Scripture reminds us that love isn’t about status; it’s about the heart.
A powerful guide for this mindset appears in Romans chapter 12. It paints a picture of sincere love, humility, patience, and honoring others above ourselves. It challenges us to move beyond favoritism and toward Christlike compassion.
Now, let’s be honest — it’s impossible to like everyone. Personalities clash, misunderstandings happen, and frustrations build. But God never commands us to like everyone; He commands us to LOVE one another. Biblical love means choosing respect, kindness, and grace even when feelings don’t cooperate. In many ways, how we treat people is a visible measure of how deeply Christ’s love is shaping us.
But what about those moments when loving others feels especially hard? When we want to react, correct, or “set someone straight”? My good friend, Michelle, recently sent me a helpful approach attributed to Abraham Lincoln: write the letter you want to send — say everything you feel — then let it sit for a day or two before discarding it. The exercise releases frustration without escalating conflict. Wisdom sometimes looks like restraint.
I often think about when Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment in Matthew 22. First, love God completely. But He didn’t stop there — He immediately added: love your neighbor as yourself. That second part is just as important as the first. It may be simple to say, but it is challenging to live.
As we move through seasons of reflection like Lent — or honestly, any season of life — it’s worth asking ourselves:
How am I doing at loving others?
Especially those who are not easy to love.
Because when our love for God grows deeper, genuine love for people naturally begins to overflow. And that kind of love has the power to change both hearts and communities.
Have a GREAT week!
Adapted from Lead with Faith, Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley