Love is Enough!

In today’s world, we often hear the phrase, “love is not enough,” with people adding the need for understanding, compassion, patience, and more. But this raises a critical question: what is love? As Christians, we’re called to recognise that “God is love” (1 John 4:8), and if God is enough, then love itself is enough. This belief rests on the foundation of our faith, that God’s love is complete and sufficient, encompassing all virtues.

Scripture guides us in understanding this love. In Deuteronomy 6:2-6, we’re commanded to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength.” Jesus echoes this in Mark 12:28-34, calling it the greatest commandment: to love God wholeheartedly and to love our neighbours as ourselves. These underscores that love is central to the Christian life, and it’s from this love that compassion, understanding, and patience naturally flow.

When we consider love in our personal relationships, especially in the sacrament of marriage, this understanding becomes even more relevant. For example, in a marriage, if one partner wrongs the other or if conflict arises, it’s tempting to think that love alone isn’t enough. But true love, as St. Thomas Aquinas taught, is “to will the good of the other.” This means making the choice to seek the best for one another, even in times of tension. To love genuinely includes being compassionate, patient, and forgiving, qualities often considered separate from love but actually essential parts of it.

The Goal of Love

Love that seeks the good of the other transforms relationships. For instance, when a couple or friends faces difficult moments, true love calls each one to respond with empathy, understanding, and selflessness. When one partner feels misunderstood or hurt, it’s love that motivates the other to listen deeply, apologise, and work toward healing. This love, which is active and intentional, meets the needs that many believe only “extras” like patience and understanding can be fulfilling.

In today’s culture, the term “love” has often been diluted. People may say “I love you” without being certain whether it’s love, infatuation, lust or attraction. St. Paul describes love’s true nature in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a: “Love is patient, love is kind…it does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking.” His words highlight that love is not just a feeling; it’s an active commitment that endures, sacrifices, and forgives. If attraction brings you together, to love (decision) keeps you together.

So, to say “I love you” is not enough if it’s only words. But “to love” — to actively show love — is enough. When we embody love in its fullness, we’re equipped to build relationships that reflect God’s own love for us, a love that sustains and fulfills. This kind of love is indeed enough, because it is both complete and boundless, just as God’s love is for us.

What do you think?

Happy Sunday 🤩

~ Fr. James Anyaegbu