100 Percent Love. Is it Possible?

In today’s society, it feels as though our divisions run deeper than ever. So many people and communities are feeling fractured and disconnected. Compassion seems to be in short supply, replaced by a growing inability to care for or respect one another—especially when our views don’t align. 

We seem to have lost our direction in many ways, forgetting the values and priorities that truly matter. The relentless pace of modern life, combined with a culture that glorifies individualism above all else, has diminished our capacity to create meaningful connections with others and to align with our higher purpose.

On Monday’s Stronghold call, we discussed the words of Jesus in Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV):

“Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

This verse reminds us of the power of love—for ourselves, for others, and for a greater purpose—to guide us back to what truly matters. It also reminds us to ask ourselves to reflect on where we’re currently directing our love or focus; or, in other words, if we’re not loving God or our neighbor, then what are we loving?

Loving Yourself: Building Inner Strength

Personal growth begins with self-awareness and self-compassion. Loving yourself doesn’t mean indulging in narcissism; it means recognizing your inherent self-worth and treating yourself with kindness. To love your neighbor “as yourself,” you must first cultivate a healthy relationship with yourself. This might involve reflecting on your values, practicing self-care, or forgiving yourself for past mistakes. 

When you love yourself fully, you create a solid foundation for emotional resilience and personal growth. This self-love radiates outward, enabling you to interact with others authentically and compassionately.

Loving Others: Strengthening Connections

Loving your neighbor is more than a moral imperative—it’s essential for personal fulfillment. Research shows that strong relationships contribute significantly to happiness and mental health. Loving others effectively requires practicing empathy, offering acts of kindness, and being present in your interactions. 

When you actively invest in your relationships, you create a ripple effect that strengthens your community and deepens your sense of purpose. Loving others also teaches valuable lessons in patience, humility, and gratitude.

Loving God (or a Greater Purpose): Expanding Your Vision

The phrase “Love the Lord your God” can be interpreted as dedicating yourself to something greater than yourself. For those with religious beliefs, this might mean devotion to God. For others, it could signify a commitment to a higher purpose, such as contributing to the well-being of others or advancing a cause that you are passionate about. 

Loving God or a greater purpose inspires a sense of direction, motivation to overcome challenges, and a connection to something eternal and enduring. By aligning your life with a larger mission, you not only grow personally, but also leave a lasting impact on the world around you.

Things to Remember:

1. Self-love is the foundation of personal growth; aim to nurture it every day through self-awareness and compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a close friend.
2. Loving others strengthens your relationships and fosters a sense of community and belonging. Small, consistent actions build trust and demonstrate care over time.
3. Living for a greater purpose inspires fulfillment and empowers you to make a difference. Aligning your actions with God or a higher mission brings clarity and motivation to your everyday life.

Can we truly love with all our heart, soul, and mind? Striving for 100 percent love might feel daunting, but it’s not about perfection—it’s about intention. Each act of kindness, quiet moment of empathy, and step toward a greater purpose reflects the power of love in action. 

And while we may fall short, the pursuit of complete love is what transforms us, strengthening our connections with others—and God.

– Jack

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