An American journalist once observed Mother Teresa tending to a man suffering from gangrene and commented, “I wouldn’t do that for a million dollars.” And Mother Teresa responded, “Neither would I… but I do it for the love of God.”
That response, simple yet profound, echoes the truth about love. Her love for God was not just a feeling, it was a force that empowered her to move with extraordinary compassion and unwavering dedication. It filled her with strength and courage, enabling her to give freely and serve generously, even in the most difficult circumstances.
What does living truly entail?
What really matters in life?
What’s the ultimate purpose of our existence?
A physician who has witnessed countless people at life’s final moments notes that the dying don’t reflect on their degrees, titles, or accumulated wealth. Those things, once so fascinating, suddenly fade into irrelevance. What they reflect on is whom they have loved and who has loved them in return. That’s why many care more about making amends, repairing damages, seeking forgiveness, making restitution and righting all wrongs.
That tells us something deeply important.
Love is what anchors our lives. It is the thread that weaves meaning into our existence. It is both our connection to God and to each other.
That’s our ultimate purpose!
There is no higher purpose.
No greater calling.
No richer legacy.
When we choose to live a loving, compassionate, healing, helpful, and forgiving life, we move closer to our true purpose.
That’s why Jesus didn’t merely suggest love, he commanded it: “Love one another, as I have loved you.”
Unlike self-centeredness, which isolates and divides, love connects and frees us. It leads us to care, true friendship, shared responsibility, and mutual respect on life’s journey.
In the end, it is love that will speak for us when words can no longer be spoken. It is love that will remain long after we are gone. It is love that gives our lives eternal significance.
So let us live, not for applause, status or gains, but for love. For in love, we find our deepest truth. And in love, we fulfil our ultimate purpose.
Love is why we are here!
✍️ Amara Ann Unachukwu
