Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of  God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

I John 4:7

The need to belong and be accepted is universal. We all crave the love of God and the love of humans, and rejection is one of our biggest fears.

Love for a newborn baby can mean the difference between life and death. This has been well documented in studies of orphanges where babies receive normal physical care but, because of the understaffing, are not played with or shown affection. In such situations, the babies cry first, then seemingly give up, and some die. They  become listless and lose their appetites. Many become  ill and some die. Of those who survive, many are mentally retarded or mentally ill.

But age makes little difference in the need for love. Social scientists at the University of California at Berkeley found that adults who aren’t in some kind of nuturing group are just as much at risk for health problems as people who smoke, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or are obese.  Being a loner can be deadly.

You have probably seen the bumper sticker that asks, “Have you hugged your kid today?” Answer yes! Determine to show your love to your friends and family. Think of specific ways to let them you know you care. Do it today. And let them show love to you too!

Thought:  Love is contagious, so I will think of several ways to pass it on today.