Eph 5:33A: “Each individual among you is also to love his own wife even as himself.”
All of you guys have heard this before; usually at weddings… if you remained awake. But what does it mean to love someone like that? Let’s turn to Jesus and read an example of how He expressed His love.
“Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end. During supper… Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God, got up from supper, and laid aside His garments. And taking a towel, He girded Himself. Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded” (John 13). So, even though Jesus knew His next stop was heaven, the last thing He did on earth (except for prayer) was to wash His disciples’ feet. Have you ever washed your wife’s feet, or massaged them, or even complemented her on a new pair of shoes? Most guys, if they noticed at all, would just ask her how much the shoes cost! Massage her aching high-heeled feet? Never! “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you” (John 13:14-15).
Do you remember the time when you couldn’t wait to see her or to hold her in your arms? When you couldn’t wait to hear her voice, see her smile, and see that twinkle in her eye? Is that still the case? Hate me, but I doubt it. That’s why we “celebrate” anniversaries and why someone invented St. Valentine’s Day… it’s because we men forget. And that’s why women get so excited when Valentine’s Day draws near… it’s because we men forget.
Now do you ever forget yourself? May it never be! And God says to, “Love your wife as yourself.” Plus you vowed to love and honor her… and love is active not passive. Jesus set many examples for us; and He wants us to be proactive like He was. In fact He commands it: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you” (John 13:34).
So how did Jesus love? Sacrificially! Jesus loved us so much that He died for us. Now I’m not asking you to die; I’m not your mother-in-law. But I am suggesting that you show a sacrificial love to your wife. After God she is to be your priority in life. So show her that she is your priority. Not just on Valentine’s Day or on your anniversary. Surprise her; take her to a restaurant during an Eagle’s game (not a sports bar) and let her see how much you prioritize her. After all, you made the commitment and you said the vow… I’m just saying.
– Carlos