I received Reclaiming Love from Booksneeze in exchange for a blog book review. That in no way shaped my opinion of this book.
When I first started reading Reclaiming Love: Radical Relationships in a Complex World
, I honestly and truly had a hard time digging into it. I put it down and went to several other books that I’m reading for review right now. Yet, I’ve been pressed to read it.
Meaning of Love?
This book definitely made me think quite a bit about my definition of the word “love”. The Bible breaks down what God sees as the meaning of loving another in 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13. I felt like I was reading a study guide for these verses.
There are so many aspects to love the many of us really don’t look at. Sometimes we have to go beyond our comfort zones to really be the “loving individuals” that God calls us to be. I know I’m definitely being put to the test in my faith because I struggle with harboring anger towards those who have wronged me.
Ironically this book made me think of my mom’s final pleas to me to learn to forgive rather than harbor vengeance in my soul. Which, it’s so much easier said than done. I tried to seek justice here on Earth for the one who wronged me only to see him walk away scott free. I have literally dreamed of killing him many times over in my life. Honestly speaking, I don’t know how I’d respond if I ever had to face him again.
Is Forgiveness Possible?
When I was confronted with having interaction with someone who harmed me too, I went into an instant rage. Del luckily was home when it happened to help calm me back down. Once he did I was able to politely communicate with that person. It wasn’t easy, but I did feel much better after I had done it. Amazingly, I don’t harbor anger towards him anymore. That’s not to say that I want to run out and hang out with him. It does say that it is possible to make peace. I know he was also young when he was involved in the mess as well, and it’s easier to forgive him for his actions. Especially, when he tried to make it right.This book has a way of making you dig deep within your heart and soul and challenge everything you may believe and feel.
[Tweet “Love is a verb. Love is all powerful. Love truly can change everything.”]
I believe that if we all learned to love more then this world would truly be a better place for all involved. I know in our own home that loving more will make a huge difference. Old habits do die hard, but it can be done.
I encourage you to get this book and read it. I’d love to know what it made you think. I’d also like to know if there were parts in it that made your feathers get ruffled like mine did?
