In a world brimming with noise, chaos, and an ever-changing landscape of success and achievement, finding a deep sense of purpose and meaning can sometimes feel elusive. Yet, amid the clamor of daily life, there lies a profound and unchanging truth that can anchor us: the knowledge that we are loved by God.
For many, the concept of divine love is a distant or abstract notion. But when we truly grasp the depth and significance of this love, it can transform our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Here I share my reflections into finding purpose and meaning through the lens of being loved by God.
One of the greatest joys of my life is my career in healthcare chaplaincy. As a healthcare chaplain in a graduated nursing facility (a location that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing Care arrangements), I am given the opportunity to step into someone’s life during a transition in their health, and when needed, in their living situation. One of my greatest purposes in my role (according to myself) is that I assist people in remaining connected to their own sense of meaning and purpose when their life has changed without much notice.
In his book Stages of Faith: The Psychology of Human Development and the Quest for Meaning, James Fowler wrote a list of questions that are intended to help people open up and talk openly about their faith. These questions include 1. As you live your life, what powers do you fear or dread? What power or powers do you rely on and trust? 2. What are those most sacred hopes, those most compelling goals and purposes in your life? Dr. Fowler describes these questions of faith as “helping us get in touch with the dynamic, patterned process by which we find life meaningful.” (Fowler, 3)
But what happens when this “dynamic, patterned process” is disrupted by a sudden fall or a life-altering diagnosis? My hope, when encountering individuals in such situations, is to help them hold on to the concept of Divine Love in a way that resonates with them personally.
Divine love is often described as unconditional, boundless, and eternal. Unlike human love, which can be influenced by circumstances or behavior, God's love remains steadfast regardless of our actions or flaws. This unchanging love offers a sense of security and acceptance that transcends the ups and downs of life. My practice of ministry is rooted in the belief that by having an awareness of receiving Divine Love, the person in my care will experience a better quality of life.
To truly appreciate this, imagine a love that does not waver with time or circumstance. It’s a love that sees beyond our mistakes and shortcomings, affirming our inherent worth. As we come to accept and internalize this divine love, it begins to reshape our self-perception and our approach to life.
- Identity and Self-Worth: At the heart of our purpose is understanding our true identity. Being loved by God gives us a foundation for self-worth that is not based on external achievements or societal standards but on the intrinsic value bestowed upon us by a loving Creator. This realization empowers us to embrace our true selves and live authentically.
- Compassion and Service: Experiencing God’s love often ignites a desire to extend that love to others through acts of kindness, compassion, and service. Serving others becomes a way to honor and express the divine love we have received, connecting us to a higher purpose of making a positive impact in the world.
- Resilience and Hope: Life is filled with challenges and hardships, but knowing we are loved by God provides a wellspring of hope and resilience. This love becomes a source of strength, helping us navigate difficult times with faith and confidence that we are never alone.
- Fulfillment and Joy: When our actions align with the love we have received, we often find a deep sense of fulfillment. Pursuing passions and vocations that reflect our values and the love we've experienced leads to a more joyful and meaningful existence. It’s not just about what we do but why we do it—driven by love and gratitude.
Embracing the Journey
Finding purpose and meaning through divine love is not a one-time realization but an ongoing journey. It involves:
Reflecting on Scripture and Spiritual Teachings: Many spiritual traditions offer insights into the nature of divine love and how it impacts our lives. Engaging with these teachings can provide guidance and inspiration.
Prayer and Meditation: Regular practices of prayer and meditation can help us connect with this love more deeply, offering moments of clarity and peace.
Community and Fellowship: Being part of a community that shares and reflects on the experience of divine love can provide support and encouragement. Sharing our experiences and hearing others’ can strengthen our understanding and commitment.
A Call to Action
As we come to terms with the depth of God’s love, it becomes a driving force in our lives. We are called to live in a way that reflects this love—through our actions, words, and relationships. Embracing this divine love invites us to pursue a life of purpose, one marked by compassion, service, and a deep sense of fulfillment.
Ultimately, being loved by God is not just a comforting thought but a powerful reality that can transform our lives. It provides a profound sense of purpose and meaning, urging us to live out this love in every aspect of our being. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember that our true worth and purpose are rooted in the unwavering, eternal love that surrounds us.
For Reflection (either individually or with a group)
Read the blog. Read it a second time, maybe reading it aloud or asking someone else to read it aloud so you can hear it with different intonation and emphases. Invite the Divine to open your heart to allow the light of new understanding to pierce the shadows of embedded assumptions, stereotypes, and ways of thinking so that you may live more abundantly. Then spend some time with the following questions together with anything or anyone who helps you reflect more deeply.
James Fowler wrote a list of questions that are intended to help people open up and talk openly about their faith:
- As you live your life, what powers do you fear or dread? What power or powers do you rely on and trust?
- What are those most sacred hopes, those most compelling goals and purposes in your life?
Rev. Tinkham writes, “Embracing this divine love invites us to pursue a life of purpose, one marked by compassion, service, and a deep sense of fulfillment.”
- What is the divine love calling you to pursue?
Download a pdf including the Reflection Questions to share and discuss with friends, family, or members of your faith community small group.
To learn more about options for post-retirement success and how to begin preparing even prior to finishing your primary career, join us in person or online for the 2024 Abundant Aging Symposium, Purpose, Meaning and Redefining Retirement on October 4th. Discounts on registration before September 9th.
