Every time you think it.

Every night when I’m on the phone to my mum, she says ‘love you lots’ before she hangs up and I say it back to her. It’s not just repetitive, we always mean it.

There have been losses in the lives of people I know and  I often think about how dearly they wish they had another moment with the person, to tell them again that they love them. I’m writing this, aware that I am in a very privileged position and yet am at risk of squandering it. I am learning that, rather than fear of embarrassment, it is always best to confess your care for someone in your life. Shrug off a fear of sentimentality, and step out for love.

As Jesus hung on the cross, He loved through ridicule, mockery and pain. Nothing sentimental about that. Just unfailing love for the world.

I read the question four years ago;

‘have you hugged your father yet today?’

If he is still here, have you? What about other people within your reach- what is stopping you from showing your love to them?

Fear should never silence love. Don’t let it. Shake off embarrassment and swallow your pride. It’s just three words but they could make somebody’s day, or better still, change their life.