Fill in the blank

We all have had those kinds of tests or quizzes that ask us to fill in the blank in order to evaluate some kind of personality trait or character development or style of learning and so on and so forth. In my life these have often been helpful and at other times not so much. I used to buy and read a science magazine entitled Omni. In one particular issue they had an IQ test. I took it and found out my results. I was quite happy about it. Never took another IQ test in my life. I didn’t want to challenge the findings of Omni. (ha-ha) I have taken many learning style type tests. That result has remained consistent throughout the years and it is fairly accurate. I can tell when I am learning and processing information and when I am not in those given situations.

One of the most valuable, if not the most valuable, quiz I have taken was only one line long. (I will share it with you in a moment) Here is the set up: Read the quiz. Fill in the blank. The results will indicate to you something about yourself that may cause you a certain level of introspection. It may also challenge your worldview as well as your view of God. Even though it is only one question it may reveal to you an area of great strength or an area of a great need. Proceed only after serious consideration. (I am not trying to be witty. I am being serious)

Think of someone you have a relationship with. (God, spouse, child, mother, father, sister, brother, employer, employee, neighbor, friend…) Fill in the blank…

“I love you ______________.”

Evaluation:

If you answered with some kind of adverb. “Good” answer but not very telling. Read on… If you answered with an adverb like; immensely, deeply, completely…etc. The focus of your answer is internal. Your ability or affection for someone is center stage. The answer itself isn’t necessarily wrong or bad. You, however, need to examine your motives for love a bit further.

If you answered with a phrase that began with causative words like “because, if, when” etc. “Bad” answer. This indicates that your love is very self centered and often times based upon the others performance. ”I love you because you make me feel special.” “I love you when you behave.” A possible or probable implication of this is that when those conditions or performances no longer exist, “I do not love you.”

If you answered something along the lines of “period, forever” “Great” answer. The indication is that love is fully focused on the other individual. There is no hidden agenda or criteria that needs to be met. That type of love is gracious, unearned, freely given.

Early next year we will be engaging this topic in our morning worship times. Love isn’t always easy and the love of God isn’t always simple to understand. It can be downright difficult to comprehend. I covet your prayers as these sermons are percolating at this time.