Genuine Affection and Delight in Honoring

Daily Gratitude Year 10- Day 144: Today, I am grateful for genuine affection and delight in honoring another. 

This time of year there are all kinds of celebrations. Mother's Day, Father's Day, Graduations, Weddings, Anniversaries and Retirement celebrations. Except for Father's Day... it hasn't arrived yet... I've participated in all of these celebrations these past few weeks, and more are on the calendar. 

All of these events are celebrations of genuine affection. When we pause to lift another person up, it raises our spirits, too. 

I love this passage:

"Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other." -Romans 12:10 (NLT)

I looked it up in a variety of English translations. I find it a good way to squeeze extra goodness from many scriptures. This passage in "The Message" stuck a chord. 

"Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle." -Romans 12:10 (The Message) 

How do we love form the center of who we are? Go deep and let it flow. Wide is the river of grace that covers our sins. As He has covered us, we can cover others. 

Love much be genuine, right? Hold on tight to what is good and true. Practice playing second fiddle. Be content and joyful when lifting up another. It is a relationship builder. 

Today, I am grateful for genuine affection and delight in honoring another.