Have you ever seen someone instantly fall in love? I have, and it was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. This happened when Vicki and I flew to Novosibirsk, Russia, to meet Christopher for the first time. Because we could not have children of our own, we decided to adopt a child from Russia, since Vicki’s paternal grandmother is from there, technically from Ukraine.

When we first met Christopher at the baby house, we reminded ourselves not to get too attached too quickly, recalling our previous failed adoption attempt. We had seen his photo; he was adorable, yet we remained cautious. The moment the nurse brought him in and placed him in Vicki’s arms, I watched her instantly fall in love with him; it was literally love at first hold. I wished I had taken a video instead of a photo, because it was a truly wondrous thing to witness. However, I then felt apprehensive, knowing we still had many hurdles to clear before we could adopt him and that Vicki was not going to take “no” for an answer.

When I first held Christopher, I sensed only a lively, squirming boy; I was envious of Vicki, who spoke about him with excitement, while I felt nothing. After another session with Christopher, I still felt nothing, and I asked God if this was the child we were meant to have; please let me feel love for him. Finally, as I held him the third time, a wave of warmth rose through me, filling me with love. I was so surprised I gasped. Vicki looked at me with concern, and I smiled at her, now able to feel the love she had for this child. To this day, I cannot explain the warm feeling of love that suddenly overtook me.

This instance shows how our lives transform when we commit to Jesus. As we do, He fills us with His Spirit, much like filling a cup. Letting His presence overflow guides our thoughts and actions, providing us with peace, joy, and the strength needed to handle everyday challenges. Romans 5:5 says, “Hope doesn’t put us to shame because God’s love is poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.” Being filled with God means being filled with His love and power, as 1 John 4:16 states: “God is love, and those who abide in love abide in Him.” These qualities transform us and shape our relationships. Experiencing God’s overflowing love encourages us to share kindness and compassion. His power helps us overcome obstacles, making us resilient and confident in His support. Being filled with God’s love and power enables us to live with joy and purpose, as Philippians 4:13 reminds us: ‘I can do all this through Christ who gives me strength.” 2 Timothy 1:7 assures us that “God has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind, not fear.”

Let His love fill us until it overflows so we can share it with everyone around us.

Take care,

Bill R