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Examples of those who showed love in the Bible
The Bible introduces us to a wide array of characters, each with their unique qualities and attributes. Among these qualities, love stands out as a prevailing theme. Let’s delve into the lives of several biblical characters who exemplified love in remarkable ways.
1. Abraham showed love to Lot and his family
When Abraham and his nephew Lot were living in the land of Canaan, an alliance of four Mesopotamian kings waged war against the kings of the cities of Canaan. They defeated Sodom and Gomorrah and spoiled them. Among the people they took captive was Lot and his family who were living near Sodom. On hearing it, Abraham embarked on a daring rescue mission to save Lot and his family from captivity. With a small but loyal group of men, Abraham attacked them, defeated them, and chased them off. He recovered all the goods and brought back his relative Lot and his possessions, together with the women and the other people. Abraham and his men risked their own lives for Lot. Their rescue mission is a testament to their commitment to protecting their loved ones. (Genesis 14)
2. Ruth showed love to Naomi
During the hard times in Israel, Naomi, her husband Elimelech, and their two sons Mahlon and Chilion left Israel for Moab. There the sons married Moabite women, Orpah and Ruth. But things took a dark turn for Naomi in the land of Moab for her husband and sons died and she had to return to Israel as a poor empty old woman. This is where Ruth proves her love to Naomi, her mother-in-law, for she selflessly accompanies Naomi to Israel, refusing to leave her side and pledging to stay with her, even in the face of uncertainty and hardship. Through her unwavering loyalty and support, Ruth exemplifies the depth of her love for Naomi. (Ruth 1:6-22)
3. Jonathan showed love to David
The relationship and the love Jonathan had for David began after David killed Goliath – an achievement that Jonathan celebrated. The Bible testifies that ‘Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.’ (1Sa 18:1) and ‘Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.’ (1Sa 18:3). Jonathan was an heir of Saul, but he was willing to surrender his throne to David and become second to David (1Sa 23:17). Any time Jonathan knew that his father King Saul had evil plans against David, he disclosed it to David to save his life. Their bond is strengthened by the genuine affection and support that Jonathan consistently provides, making it clear that his love for David knows no bounds. (1 Samuel 18:1)
4. David showed love to Mephibosheth
David and Mephibosheth were two individuals who had a significant encounter in biblical history. Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and David’s close friend. However, due to a series of unfortunate events, Mephibosheth became disabled and was living in a place called Lo-debar. One day, David remembered his covenant with Jonathan and sought to show kindness to any remaining members of Jonathan’s family. He discovered Mephibosheth and brought him to his palace, where he restored to him all the land that belonged to his grandfather, Saul. David even invited Mephibosheth to dine at his table for the rest of his life. This act of kindness and generosity by David towards Mephibosheth is a display of true love for David has extended the love he had for Jonathan to his son Mephibosheth. (2 Samuel 9)
5. Jehosheba showed love to Joash
Jehosheba, a woman of great courage and determination, played a pivotal role in saving Joash of Judah. Jehosheba was the daughter of King Jehoram of Judah and the sister of King Ahaziah of Judah. King Ahaziah’s death was followed by a time of political turmoil and danger for his mother Athaliah, in an attempt to usurp the throne, began killing the children and heirs of Ahaziah. Through her quick thinking, Jehosheba was able to hide Joash, one of Ahaziah’s sons, from his grandmother Queen Athaliah. Though Athaliah succeeded in killing all the siblings of Joash and usurped the throne, little did she know that Joash survived the purge and would overthrow her to become a king. Jehosheba’s selfless deed of risking her own life to protect and preserve the future king is a display of true love. Reference 2 Kings 11:1-3
6. Jehoiada showed love to Joash of Judah
When Jehoshebah saved the life of baby Joash, she hid him and her nurse in the temple of God. This surviving son Joash and his nurse were made to hide in the Temple of Solomon under the protection and care of the high priest Jehoiada during the 7 years of Athaliah’s reign. In the 7th year of Queen Athaliah’s reign, Jehoiada with the support of military leaders, the priests, the Levites, and other officials, overthrew Athaliah and installed Joash as king of Judah. Further, he played a significant role in the reign of Joash, serving as a mentor and advisor. Under Jehoiada’s guidance, Joash initiated religious reforms and restored the temple of the Lord. Jehoiada also helped Joash establish his authority and protect his throne from the influence of idolatry. In short, Jehoiada showed Joash a love that transcends understanding. (2 Kings 11)
7. Mary and Martha showed love to Jesus
Mary and Martha demonstrated their love for Jesus through their actions and hospitality. They welcomed Jesus into their home and provided Him with food and a place to rest. Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, eagerly listening to His teachings and soaking in His wisdom. Martha, on the other hand, busied herself with serving and making sure everything was in order. Both sisters expressed their love for Jesus in different ways, but their devotion was evident. Jesus appreciated their love and commended Mary for choosing to prioritize spending time with Him. Through their acts of love and service, Mary and Martha exemplified the importance of showing love to Jesus. (Luke 10:38-42; Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9; Luke 7:36-50; John 12:1-8)
8. Jesus showed love to all mankind
Jesus, the central figure of Christianity, is known for his unwavering display of love towards humanity. His actions and teachings consistently exemplify the depth and breadth of his love for us. From healing the sick and comforting the grieving to forgiving the repentant and embracing the outcasts, Jesus demonstrates a profound compassion that transcends societal norms and expectations. Through his selfless sacrifice on the cross, he offers the ultimate expression of love, willingly laying down his life to redeem and reconcile humanity with God (Romans 5:8). Jesus’ love knows no bounds, as he extends grace and mercy to all, regardless of their background or past mistakes.
9. The Good Samaritan
The parable of the Good Samaritan underscores the essence of love in action. According to the parable, a Jew traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho was robbed, beaten, and left half-dead on the way. A priest and a Levite who saw him could not help him. But a Samaritan who was passing by came to help the man, cleaned his wounds, and took him to an inn for treatment. The Samaritan’s selfless care for the Jew tells us that showing love transcends all boundaries, be it ethnicity, tribal, or national boundaries. (Luke 10:25-37)
Conclusion
The Bible is replete with characters who embody love in its various forms. From selfless sacrifice to unwavering loyalty, these individuals serve as timeless examples of love’s enduring impact on humanity. Their stories continue to inspire and guide us in our own pursuit of love and compassion.