There is no greater gift than to love and be loved unconditionally. Unconditionally is the most important word in the previous sentence. To me, conditional love is not love at all. And, most important, it isn’t a love I want in my life. “I love you and…” instead of “I love you but…” is what I want to hear as I move forward.

Corinthians 1:13 is one of the greatest definitions of love. Here is my favorite section:

“…Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves. Love never fails…”

I am truly blessed to be loved by my children, family, and so many wonderful friends. What I look forward to most during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve is the time I will spend with these special people in my life. There will be a lot of laughter, food, and joyful memories made.

Unconditional love is the greatest gift I can give and receive this Christmas.

What is your greatest gift?

NOTE: This is part of a one week series.