The inescapable love of God. This theme is the largest narrative of history. Exodus 34:6 and the several Old Testament passages refer to that "theme song." When we say "God is love" that is different than saying "God is loving." This connects God's very essence to love. Even his wrath is an aspect of his love for all. This moves us to a very different understanding of the story/death/resurrection of Jesus. And in the end, in some sense, God's love will win.

What does it mean for us to experience this love emotionally and relationally? What does it mean to love oneself? And then, what does it mean to express this love towards a spouse . . . friend . . . Christian family . . . enemies?

"The love of Christ compels us." The early Christians are moved along not by fear, not by Torah obedience, but by this love that has captured them. We enter into spiritual disciplines not because of ascetic impulses but because the love of Christ/God is forming us through the Holy Spirit. We choose holy living because of love. We think missionally because of love. We practice the joy of evangelism because God's love is moving us. We're living into the reality of God's loving future.