Image Description: Three thin, wood-carved hearts. One is red, one is orange, and one is green. They are hanging from wires.
Years ago, at a conference, I heard someone voice a phrase right before a prayer. I’m reminding myself of this again. It’s a simple statement and a beautiful reframing.
The leader said,
“We are held in a love we are not required to deserve.”
Oh, that’s so good, I thought.
Have you ever felt that before? Love you’re not required to deserve? Love given freely and abundantly? Has it ever surprised you? Relieved you? Empowered you?
We’ve probably heard messaging before that says, “You are loved, even though you don’t deserve it.” But this is saying something different, better, and deeper. “We are held in a love we are not required to deserve.” Deservedness is off the table, truly not required. We are loved because we are. Because we exist. Because we belong. Because… well, there is no because (at least not a deserved or earned one). Period.
If that phrase needs to reach us in any part of our lives, or any parts of ourselves, or any parts of our self-understanding, I hope we can receive it as true.
“We are held in a love we are not required to deserve.”
Smuggling Grace 