Well, what’s it going to be? Eros, philia or agape?

One of the problems we have in the English language is that one word has multiple meanings and in order to realize what is being communicated we need to be putting the appropriate context to the word being used.

In the case of love, we use the word for everything from food to flowers, to people, to just about everything.

I love chocolate, I love steak, I love to watch the 49ers play football. I love that sweater, love that car, sure do love that boat, love you brother, love you Mom, Dad, Sister, I love you, my wife to be.

Do we really understand what love means as it pertains to our Lord and Savior Jesus?

Regardless of economics, race or status, people value love and recognize that love will shape what is good and true.

It should not be surprising to anybody that love permeates and lies at the heart of what the apostle John is saying in John 15:9-17.

Since our English word love is used so broadly, it is helpful to distinguish between different types of love in order to gain a more precise understanding of the New Testament's message.

This can be easily accomplished because the New Testament was written in Greek and there are various Greek words for love all of which are translated into the word “love” in English.

Eros: Eros is probably what most people mean when they announce with a smile, "I'm in love." This type of love covers everything from queasy stomachs and warm fuzzy feelings to strong sensual passion.

Philia: We recognize philia and its meaning from the name Philadelphia, that is, the city of brotherly love. This is the love of friendship, best friends and the fellowship of being with those people you enjoy.

Agape: Unlike the previous two types of love, agape is not limited to being held hostage by its environment and someone's perception. The reason why agape can soar above these is because it is based upon the commitment of a decision. It entails the decision to proactively seek someone else’s well-being. For example, Jesus' teaching that we should agape (love) our enemies is intended to show the boundless nature of the Christian commitment toward seeking another's well-being, unconditionally.

Agape is the love we need to be showing to every person we come in contact with each and every day, especially those who are in desperate need; like many in Lake County.

So, the question is, do we agape people enough in this community to respond to their needs. If not, that is where we need to get to so Lake County will once again flourish. Like the Beatles song says, “All you need is love” and that love (agape) is exactly what we need!

We will talk more about agape on Sunday, May 6, at First Lutheran Church. Please join us for our traditional Holy Communion service at 11 a.m.Bible study begins at 9:30 a.m. and there is lunch served each week after worship.

All are welcome, so come as you are to learn more about the true vine.

Chris DelCol is pastor of First Lutheran Church in Lucerne, Calif. The church is located at 3863 Country Club Drive, telephone 707-274-5572.