But why?
Because I want to be in a personal, ongoing relationship with God. I want to glorify Him with my thoughts and my actions and my very life. I love Him.
But why?
For the answer to this, I look as always to Scripture and the teachings of the Church.
"We, for our part, love because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19
God’s "love for his people is stronger than a mother’s for her children. God loves his people more than a bridegroom his beloved; his love will be victorious over even the worst infidelities and will extend to his most precious gift: 'God so loved the world that he gave his only Son.'" Catechism of the Catholic Church #219
"Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you. See, upon the palms of My hands I have written your name." Isaiah 49:15-16)
"God loves each of us as if there were only one of us." St. Augustine
"I have called you by name; you are Mine." Isaiah 43:1
"God is love." 1 John 4:8
"I know you are unworthy, but rejoice all the more and take as many treasures from my Heart as you can carry, for then you will please Me more... Oh, how I love those souls who have complete confidence in Me. I will do everything for them." Jesus to St. Faustina
"Love Him totally Who gave Himself totally for your love." St. Clare of Assisi
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For Prayer and Reflection:
- Do I believe God loves me, personally? Do I ever feel unworthy of His love?
- Can I talk with God about His love for me, and mine for Him?
- If I meditate upon the above quotes, does anything happen? Do I feel God speaking to me through any of them?