Philippians 2:4 (NIV) not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

I can’t say I’m overly equipped for the task but my wife is overdue for an evening out with her girlfriends and so this leaves me on deck for a ballet recital dress rehearsal for our five year old. The questioning glares of the moms backstage leave no doubt that I’m out of place.

I’m sure Ivy would have rather had her mom here for this but I can tell she also likes having me experience this part of her world and it’s clear she needs the moral support. So I’m facing my fear of bows and ribbons and in true male character I soldier on.

Still, I feel significantly under-equipped and tellingly out of my element. It’s my love and care for her that keeps me focused on her needs and concerns on this nerve-rattling but important evening.

I’m reminded that this is just what love does. Whether it’s for a friend or a neighbor or a daughter, love looks to the needs and concerns of another at our own inconvenience and expense.

This kind of love is the reality of the Christian experience. It’s the substance of our faith as we trust in a Savior who gave Himself for us even though we didn’t deserve it. Coincidentally this kind of love is also the foundation of strong relationships.

Hebrews 10:24 (NIV) And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,