The Art of Love ♡ The Narrow Path
“Do you love me?” The Father asked. More than thrice.
I thought I did. But this adulterous heart denied the Father more than thrice. Papa Jesus was talking about unconditional love - agape; while I could only see philia.
“Feed my sheep.”
I knew not how. I just knew I had to go with empty hands and that he would provide. I just had to listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd.
“How much do you love me?” The Father asked.
If the Father didn’t withhold giving his all - his one and only son whom he loved; why should I withhold anything? Yet Abraham who hadn’t witnessed the Father giving his one and only son, obeyed the Father’s command to sacrifice his one and only son This was in spite of the fact that the Father had promised him descendants as numerous as the stars of the sky and the sand on the seashore; and that Abraham waited 25 years before God gave him Isaac. Abraham reasoned that God could raise Isaac back to life again. Abraham wasn’t selfish in obeying God - he saw the greater good that Isaac would grow in faith in God.
Then I laid everything down at the altar. Everything. Secular music, entertainment media, success, career, family, ministry, friendships, marriage, justice.
And when I finally lost sight of everything, desiring absolutely nothing but God, not even his blessings or promises, not even a future - I was left stunned by the beauty of God. When you see something beautiful, you can’t help but keep looking at it. I couldn’t help but see God in everything. And I can’t help staring into everything. I feel an ache of deep love when I look at people. It’s almost as if I’m standing in front of a masterpiece in a gallery exhibition. The difference is that one has life and art does not. You feel the brevity of life and see the unseen beauty of a precious life that has a past, a present and a future. And you just want the best for every person.
But it’s a pity the world either sees Eros or thinks I’m judging them. So I’ve got to be careful. I’m not sure how but somehow God has shut Eros from my heart by his grace to guard my heart as I pursue the heart of God. It’s strange. I like everyone - not in a platonic or romantic way but in a way that wants the best for every person without minding any loss; befriends the left out though it counts a cost; secretly praying for passersby, strangers, family, friends, acquaintances. I can’t wait for heaven, and the beautiful thing is that we can pray for the will of God on earth as it is in heaven. When we’re in heaven, we don’t have to walk on eggshells anymore. I could hug anyone and I could free the pure joy that’s chained within me.
The best apology is through deeds not words. What better way to love people than to first love the Father with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength. Narrow is the path but the Word of God is a lamp unto my feet and a light onto my path. It shows me the way to go, day and night.
Reflecting on the deep spiritual journey described in the article, I have found that embracing agape love—the unconditional, selfless love that mirrors God's—is truly transformative. When I began to surrender my own ambitions and distractions, much like the author laying everything down at the altar, I experienced a remarkable clarity and peace in my life. It’s not easy to choose the narrow path, especially when society often promotes more immediate, self-centered gratifications, but the beauty of pursuing this path lies in the richness of inner growth and genuine connection. I resonate strongly with the idea of hearing the Good Shepherd’s voice and following it with empty hands, trusting that provision will come. This practice fosters humility and dependence on divine guidance rather than solely on one’s own strength. It’s also encouraging to see Abraham’s faith as an example—his readiness to sacrifice with trust in God's promises is a profound lesson in prioritizing faith over fear. Moreover, cultivating a heart that longs for the well-being of others, beyond romantic or platonic affection, has deepened my empathy and compassion. Praying for strangers or acquaintances, hoping for God's will to be done on earth as in heaven, brings a sense of connectedness and purpose amid daily challenges. Though the world may misunderstand or misinterpret such love, guarding the heart through God’s grace helps maintain this delicate balance without losing innocence or joy. The article’s reflection on seeing people as living masterpieces reminded me to appreciate the fleeting beauty and potential in every individual’s story. This perspective encourages kindness and patience, making life’s hardships more bearable. Ultimately, loving God fully guides us in loving others authentically. The narrow path may be challenging, but walking it with the light of God's Word makes every step meaningful and hopeful.