When Love Becomes Help – The Power of Purpose

Paul Tillich’s profound statement, "There is no love which does not become help," resonates deeply, especially when we consider the intersection of our passions and our purpose. It reminds us that true love isn't a passive emotion; it's an active force that inherently seeks to uplift, support, and serve. But what does this mean for each of us, particularly in the context of what we choose to do with our lives?

Often, we talk about "doing what you love" as if it’s a luxury or a whimsical pursuit. Yet, Tillich’s quote suggests something far more fundamental: that when we truly love something – a craft, a cause, a field of study, a community – that love naturally transforms into a desire to contribute. It compels us to move beyond mere enjoyment and into meaningful action.

Consider the artist who loves to paint. Their love for the brush and canvas isn’t just about personal satisfaction; it often translates into creating beauty that inspires, provokes thought, or brings joy to others. The teacher who loves their subject matter doesn’t just impart facts; their passion ignites curiosity in students, helping them discover their own potential. The healthcare worker who loves caring for people doesn’t merely perform tasks; their compassion becomes a source of comfort and healing.

This principle is especially potent for those of us who feel called to serve, whether in traditional ministry, leadership roles, or within our families and communities. When our work, our service, our very being, is rooted in genuine love – love for humanity, for justice, for truth, for God – then that love becomes the most powerful form of help we can offer. It’s not a chore or an obligation; it’s an outpouring of the very best of who we are.

But what if you're not sure what you love, or how that love can become help? The journey begins with introspection. What makes your heart sing? What problems do you feel compelled to solve? Where do you feel a surge of energy and purpose? Nurturing those nascent loves, even if they seem small or insignificant at first, is crucial. Because once that love is tended, it will inevitably seek expression, and in that expression, it will find its way to becoming help – transforming not only the world around you but also enriching your own life with unparalleled meaning.

So, let us be encouraged by Tillich’s wisdom. Let us chase our loves, cultivate our passions, and trust that in doing so, we are not just fulfilling ourselves, but actively participating in the grand tapestry of human connection and support. For truly, there is no love which does not become help.