July 1 – Love as the Engine of Transformation
Transformation happens when we allow ourselves to be loved in places we think are unlovable. Brennan Manning
Gregg’s Reflection
When I look back on the moments of deepest change in my life, they weren’t driven by fear, shame, or sheer willpower. They were fueled by love—God’s love working its way into my heart, sometimes quietly, sometimes like a rushing wind.
Fear may get us to change our behavior for a while, but it rarely changes the heart. Love, on the other hand, has a way of softening what is hard, opening what is closed, and reorienting what is lost. I’ve seen it in my own journey: when I truly know I am loved, I begin to act differently—not because I must, but because I want to.
This is why grace is so transformative. It is not a reward for change; it is the power that makes real change possible. God’s love is the great engine—always running, always available—inviting us to step into a new way of being.
Scripture
We love because he first loved us.
1 John 4:19
May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else.
1 Thessalonians 3:12
Ancient Quotes
The soul is transformed into the object of its love.
John of the Cross, The Ascent of Mount Carmel
He who loves God will be transformed by God into that which he loves.
Augustine of Hippo, Confessions
Modern Quotes
Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.
Martin Luther King Jr., Strength to Love, p. 51
Transformation happens when we allow ourselves to be loved in places we think are unlovable.
Brennan Manning, Abba’s Child, p. 90
Journaling Prompts
- When has love—not fear—been the catalyst for change in your life?
- Where do you still resist God’s transforming love?
- How could you let yourself be loved more fully right now?
- What change might flow naturally from living in that love?
Richard Rohr tells us “We eventually love others as we have allowed God to love us. You are the beloved of God, and God loves you just as you are.” Jesus loved sinners, he only condemned those who thought they were righteous. Contemplate the implications of this to your life!
👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 26 Reflection: Loving/Being Loved