THE FACE OF LOVE

My last several articles have been about the love of God, both as it flows to us and through us to others. It was my intention to do a follow up article with an illustration. For some time I pondered how to illustrate the love of God. Nothing seemed suitable. Earlier I used a photo of Niagara Falls when I wrote about God's power. But what picture can accurately show God's love?

A REMARKABLE YOUNG MAN

Saturday I attended the funeral of Walker Best, a young man of numerous accomplishments. In high school he won many awards, two of which were valedictorian and Best All Around.” At A&M he continued his stellar academic performance as an honors student in biology. Walker’'s dream was to be a doctor and he had been invited to interview at 5 medical schools. He lacked only 6 hours to graduate in December and will be awarded his BS in Biology by A&M posthumously.

Yet what people most remember about him was his ability to love others. Over 1200 people attended his funeral. Several publicly shared memories of Walker, many others shared privately. Few talked about how smart he was but rather his joyful commitment to Christ, his radiant smile, his character, his caring hugs, his nonjudgmental nature. Person after person spoke of his kindness, his loyal friendship, and his ability to put others before himself.

LOVE GOD, LOVE OTHERS

Walker's philosophy was simple: Love God and love others. Found on his computer was also this injunction: "Love much, hate little."A slide show featured photos of family and friends, some from his personal computer. On the corner of several photos he had written some of his favorite scriptures, including Romans 12:40-43.

In view of the testimony of so many, it seems fitting to use Walker'’s photo to illustrate the love of God.

ROBERT WALKER BEST

August 22, 1983 - August 26, 2006

A life well lived
to the glory of God

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.
Honor one another above yourselves.
Never be lacking in zeal,
but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Share with God's people who are in need.
Practice hospitality

Roms 12:10-13