A Heart Overflowing with Love
Inspited by Days of Heaven by AB Simpson
"But Jesus turned and rebuked them." — Luke 9:55 BSB
Early in their walk with Jesus, James and John were fiery and zealous. When the Samaritans rejected Christ, they asked, “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven?” Their zeal lacked maturity, compassion, and understanding. Jesus’ gentle rebuke redirected them, not toward judgment but toward the love and patience that God demonstrates to all.
Years later, that same John, now transformed by time with Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit, would write letters overflowing with love and tender instruction. Paul, too, after initially rejecting Mark for his failures, later recognized his worth and valued him as “useful for ministry” (2 Timothy 4:11).
The Overflowing Fountain
A fountain is an apt picture of mature love—full, abundant, and overflowing. At its source is the throne of God, whose love is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). Just as a fountain cannot hold its waters but must spill them out, the love of Christ within us compels us to love others—not because they deserve it, but because the Spirit within us overflows with His love.
This love isn’t the immature zeal that seeks to “call down fire” on those who oppose or fail us. It’s the patient, steady, compassionate love that reflects God’s character. It’s the love that sees others through the lens of grace, trusting God to complete His work in them as He is doing in us.
Walking in Love
Mature love:
Seeks understanding over judgment. When others fall short, it remembers our own failings and God’s grace.
Flows outward. It doesn’t stop with us but reaches out to bless and encourage others.
Endures. Love doesn’t give up or give in. It perseveres, trusting God’s plan and timing.
As we abide in Christ, this fountain of love grows deeper, transforming us into people who are tenderhearted, forgiving, and considerate of others.
A Prayer of Trust
Father,
Your love flows from Your throne, filling our hearts and overflowing into the lives of others. We trust You to grow in us a love that is patient, kind, and enduring—a love that seeks to reflect Your grace. Thank You for transforming us, just as You did James and John, into people who love because You first loved us. We rest in the truth that Your love in us is enough for every moment and every interaction. Amen.
Final Thought
Love is the greatest evidence of spiritual maturity. As we allow the Spirit to work within us, may we, like a fountain, overflow with the tender, enduring love of Christ to a world in desperate need of it.