knowing his love

“And to know this love that surpasses knowledge.” (Ephesians 3:19)  

How is it possible to know a love that surpasses knowledge?  That is unless this type of knowing is different from the knowing we usually talk about.  Maybe the kind of knowing Paul is praying for goes far beyond mere cognition.  Maybe the kind of knowing he is talking about cannot be done with the head, but only with the heart.  Maybe it is the kind of knowing Moses wrote about when he said, “Adam knew Eve, and she conceived a son.” (Genesis 4:1) It is the most intimate kind of knowing possible.  It is like the silent embrace of two lovers.  It is a type of knowing that says, “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—for your love is more delightful than wine.” (Song of Songs 1:2) It is a knowing that can only be described by the intimacy and passion and union of husband and wife.  Maybe that’s the kind of knowing that surpasses knowledge.  Maybe that’s the kind of knowing that God wants for each of us—intimate union.  Maybe what God really wants is not merely for us to “know” he loves us, but for us to be seized by the power of his great affection.  Maybe he wants us to be so captured by the passionate torrent of his love that it changes everything about us.  Maybe this kind of knowing leads to an ecstasy that is beyond explanation.  If that’s the case, then you can sign me up!

O Lord, I want to know the love that surpasses knowledge.  Because I have a feeling that when I finally do know that love, it will turn me into a totally different person.  It will fill me so full of you that I simply won’t be able to contain myself, but will overflow with your life and your love onto everyone who crosses my path.  That’s the life I want, O God.  That’s the love I want.  Thank you that that’s the kind of life and love you want for me.  Amen.