Agape Love

As we heard the news of our team returning safely back home the word that resonated in my mind was “Agape”. Not the definition of a mouth being left open, the word that describes the highest form of love God displays for us. I’ve heard many preachers and pastors relate the term to Grace. It is a love that is void of romance, love much greater than that. It is an active love that daily chooses us. It is a love that transcends our human experience into the eternal realm. Famously it is displayed in John 3:16.

This past campaign brought about many challenges. From the offset we had certain medical supplies confiscated at the airport in Lima. During the trip, our team was also met with “shaking” form a distant earthquake. Not to mention rounds of sickness that made their way through team members. However, God’s love never failed. It never does.

Despite the incredible difficulties and long days, we are reminded of John 3:17. “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” Even on the cross when all hoped seemed lost, God’s Agape love prevailed. For us this past week we experienced tribulations but were met in our deepest needs by God’s sovereign love. Our team was able to provide surgical care for 22 patients! While the medical value can be calculated, the gospel that was shared with these patients has no dollar amount that would come close. As the month of February wraps up and the chocolates are consumed and flowers wither there is an eternal love that is as sweet now filled with a beauty whose radiance will never fade.