Dear Avianna, Autumn, Auria, and Autri,
As your grandfather, there’s something I want to pass on to you that is more important than money, fame, or even success in life. It’s the one thing that Jesus said matters most: love.
When Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was, He didn’t hesitate. He said:
“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” — Matthew 22:37-39
He didn't say the most important thing is to be popular, or rich, or even to do everything perfectly. He said: Love God. Love others.
Why Love Is the Most Important Thing
Love is what holds everything else together. The Bible says:
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” — 1 Corinthians 13:13
Without love, even the greatest accomplishments don’t matter (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). Love is what makes us more like Jesus. Love is how the world will know we follow Him.
When You’re Young…
You’ll face pressure to go along with the crowd. Some kids might chase popularity, money, or attention. Others might make fun of people who are different, or try to hide who they really are because they’re afraid of not being accepted.
But I want you to remember this: You are already deeply loved by God. He made you exactly how He wanted you, and His opinion is the one that matters most.
What Does It Mean to Love God?
Loving God means putting Him first in your heart, your decisions, and your life. Here are some ways you can do that:
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Spend time with Him. Pray and read the Bible every day, even just a little bit.
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Obey His Word. Even when it's hard, trust that God's way is always best.
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Thank Him. Tell God thank you for all the good things in your life.
What Does It Mean to Love Others?
Loving others means showing kindness, respect, and care to the people around you — even the ones who aren’t always easy to love. Here are some ways you can practice this:
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Be kind to everyone. Especially those who are left out or picked on.
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Help others. If you see someone who needs help, offer a hand.
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Forgive quickly. Don’t hold grudges — let things go.
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Use your words to build up. Say things that encourage, not things that hurt.
Some Practical Examples
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Sit with the new kid at lunch.
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Help your sibling with their homework.
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Say thank you to your teachers and parents.
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Pray for a friend who’s having a tough day.
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Write a kind note to someone “just because.”
A Final Word
The world will try to teach you that love is a feeling or something you earn. But God says love is a choice — and it's something you live every day.
Choose love. Every day. Even when it’s hard. Even when others aren’t. That’s what Jesus did, and it’s what He’s calling you to do, too.
With all my love,
Grandpa
