This unconditional and unlimited love is what the evangelist John calls God's first love. " Let us love," he says, "because God loved us first" (1 John 4:19).
The love that often leaves us doubtful, frustrated, angry, and resentful is the second love, that is to say, the affirmation, affection, sympathy, encouragement and support that we receive from our parents, teachers, spouses and friends. We all know how limited, broken and very fragile that love is.
"You are loved. There is no reason to be afraid. In love God created your inmost self and knit you together in your mother's womb" (Psalm 139:13)
Taken from 'In the name of Jesus:Reflections on Christian Leadership
by Henri J. M. Nouwen
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