Participation is at the heart of every good relationship. It is impossible to express
real love and concern without participation. How can anyone ever feel the
blessings of love without a genuine connection? This can take many forms and is
necessary. Consider the “Good Samaritan” of Luke 10. The injured man realized no
benefit because the Samaritan noticed his plight. It was when compassion carried
help to the distressed man and participation rendered aid that the connection began making a difference.
Every relationship is different, yet, all require
participation. Your child needs you to take some time to listen to her stories
or celebrate his win in a game you don’t even understand. Your spouse needs to
know they really do matter most to you by involvement in their life.
One day Jesus looked over Jerusalem, a city full of people
that did not believe in Him and would eventually actively engage in His death, yet,
filled with compassion not animosity or hidden hopes of evil for them, He wept
over them and walked the road to redemption for them. That is LOVE expressed by
participation.
