Consider this quote in the context of Advent:

“One can give nothing whatever without giving oneself – that is to say, risking oneself. If one cannot risk oneself, then one is simply incapable of giving.”
Source: The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin via

This quote gives fresh insight as to why true love, true giving, and truly following Jesus is not easy. It also gives insight into the giving nature of God–who gave himself, in the person of Jesus, and in so doing took the risk of betrayal and death by the hands of those whom he created.

As Jesus’ followers, we are called to love in a similarly profound and risky manner. Are we up for the challenge?