love vs freedom
The love of God was always something I found hard to wrap my head around. Why would He love me? What of me does He love? How did He just decide to die for an unbelieving world? Every now and then I find myself questioning the crucifixion and the resurrection but not because I struggle to believe that it took place, but rather I don’t see why He would.
I am reading the book “The Jesus I Never Knew” and I’m glad it discusses some of the less-talked-about parts of Christianity. One of the things that got me thinking hard was the question “Do we enjoy too much freedom?”. Knowing what evil we are capable of, God still allowed us free will (and honestly, I don’t even enjoy it that much sometimes). I think we can try to put ourselves in God’s shoes - to gently transform us with persuasion and not fear. “Every parent and every lover knows, love can be rendered powerless if the beloved chooses to spurn it.” He allowed himself to be weak so that we would choose Him by ourselves. And through that develop a love that is not forced but willing and sacrificial for Him.
In the book there was an anecdote that stood out to me: A man was sharing about his son, Jake, who was a drug addict and could not keep a job. He never went home and was always astray. The man said “If only I could bring him back, and shelter him and try to show him how much I love him.” The man continued to reflect on how Jake’s love would mean so much more to him than his other responsible children. And he ended with saying “Odd isn’t it? That’s how love is.”
Why would Jesus die and not grant immediate salvation to all at the snap of his fingers? Why was there a restrain of power and authority? That’s just how love is. Understanding this love is powerful in winning the human heart. That’s why God did it. Ironically, the term “saviour complex” cannot be applied to Jesus at all. For example, Jesus preached to the rich young ruler and told him to sell his possessions; and simply let him walk away after the rich young man refused to (Matthew 19:16-22). He did not feel the need to manipulate or force his choice. Because He loved him.
Sidenote:
🚨 this is a document of my personal faith journey and im just sharing what i am passionate about!
🚨 i create these posts to share my walk with God, there is no intent of judgement or discrimination
🚨 we are all learning! feel free to share if your perspective
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Throughout my own spiritual journey, I have wrestled with the tension between love and freedom just as vividly as the author describes. The concept that love must be freely given and freely received resonates deeply. It’s fascinating to consider God’s decision to grant humanity free will, even though it allows for the possibility of evil and rejection of His love. This choice highlights the value placed on authentic relationships rather than forced obedience. From personal experience, moments when I felt pressured or coerced in relationships—whether with others or even in religious contexts—often led to resentment or superficial compliance rather than true transformation. Genuine love, however, invites and empowers us to choose freely, much like the story of the rich young ruler who walked away after his encounter with Jesus. His decision to refuse wasn’t met with manipulation but respect for his freedom, underlining a love that doesn’t override autonomy. I’ve also observed in real life how love that patiently awaits a response can be more powerful and meaningful. Like the anecdote about the father and his wayward son, the act of loving without immediate results demonstrates enduring hope and sacrifice. This parallels how God’s restraint in providing immediate salvation encourages personal growth and a sincere response. Understanding this dynamic heightens the appreciation for the crucifixion and resurrection. Jesus willingly endured suffering without imposing belief, embodying a love that respects freedom yet offers grace and redemption. This has personally encouraged me to seek a faith based on personal conviction and heartfelt response, not mere obligation or fear. In my reflection, embracing the balance of love and freedom enriches faith, making it a lived experience of trust and choice. It challenges me to foster relationships—in both spiritual and daily life—that honor this principle, inviting others to encounter love in its most authentic form.