But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 (TM)

I’m not generally given to extravagance. I think I have too much stingy Dutch blood in me. I generally don’t buy clothes unless the price is well below retail. I prefer to live in a smaller, older house with character as opposed to a big new construction in the latest subdivision. I will admit to having my splurges, but I try to live simply and be content.

Perhaps that’s why the command to "love extravagantly" jumped off the page at me this morning. Extravagance isn’t viewed as a good thing in the midwestern small town where I live. It’s viewed with suspicion. It’s gives people reason to give you a hard look. It’s cause for people to seriously question your character.

Perhaps it’s that very noticeability that God is after. "They’ll know you are my followers if you love one another," Jesus said. Frugal, every day kinds of love don’t give people reason to notice. Love that you can pick up at a garage sale because it will provide just what you think you need for next to nothing. That won’t turn any heads.

Extravagant, over the top love is God’s requirement. Love that gives more than necessary. Love that forgives more than is reasonable. Love that motivates uncharacteristic behavior.

I need more extravagance in my life – love extravagance.

Creative Commons photo courtesy of Flickr and Shanissinha