Let's copy Him, copy Him, copy Him

Of all the precious ideas and beliefs and truths that I have discovered in Bible study, my favorite subject is love.  Like I am sure many people would agree, many of us, especially women, think of a romantic, Valentine's Day kind of love.  Maybe some think of the love they have for their children.  But what about God's love for us?  Is there a more powerful force in existence? Really try to imagine what it takes to give your son, your own flesh and blood, to a bunch of people who, frankly, are unworthy.  Imagine being the Son, and being willing to take this cup.  This is a big deal.  Imagine the grace it took to be nailed to a cross, and still ask God to forgive those who pounded the nails into His tender flesh.  That is love greater any that can be reproduced here on Earth.  But wouldn't it be great if we tried to imitate it? I am not talking about being nicer to your spouse or kids, but really loving everyone we come into contact with.  The mean people, the dirty people, the people who make us want to wash our hands, or turn the other way.  Even your mortal enemy at work. Even the young driver who cut you off in traffic while texting and applying lip gloss, yes, even her. 
I am fortunate enough to have a mom who showed me the best example of love I have ever seen.  I hate to think what kind of person I would be if I had not had her beuatiful example of truly unconditional love.  She raised three of the biggest brats who ever lived.  But no matter how bratty we were, and no matter how we may have talked to her in an ugly way, she ALWAYS loved us.  Perhaps she should have disciplined us more, but she gave us the beautiful gift of love.  I will always be grateful to her for this.