The Equality of Perfect Love
71. Perfect love does not split up the single human nature, common to all, according to the diverse characteristics of individuals; but, fixing attention always on this single nature, it loves all men equally. It loves the good as friends and the bad as enemies, helping them, exercising forbearance, patiently accepting whatever they do, not taking the evil into account at all but even suffering on their behalf if the opportunity offers, so that, if possible, they too become friends. If it cannot achieve this, it does not change its own attitude; it continues to show the fruits of love to all men alike. It was on account of this that our Lord and God Jesus Christ, showing His love for us, suffered for the whole of mankind and gave to all men an equal hope of resurrection, although each man determines his own fitness for glory or punishment.
St. Maximus the Confessor Four Hundred Centuries on Love: #71
Perfect love, as described by Maximus the Confessor, does not differentiate based on individual characteristics. It loves all equally, whether friend or foe, with a consistent, unwavering affection. This love mirrors the love of Christ, who suffered for all mankind and offers everyone an equal hope of resurrection.
Visualize a vast and boundless ocean, its waters touching every shore with equal gentleness and strength. Perfect love is like this ocean, embracing every soul with its expansive reach. It does not discriminate based on one’s actions or status but offers a consistent, patient, and compassionate love to all.
This love is particularly evident in the way it treats both friends and enemies. It helps friends by nurturing and supporting them, while it extends patience and forbearance to enemies, hoping to transform enmity into friendship. Even when this transformation is
not possible, perfect love remains unchanged, continuing to show compassion and understanding.
The ultimate example of this love is found in Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for all humanity, offering each person the same hope of eternal life. This universal love calls us to rise above personal grievances and biases, to love others as God loves us, and to work towards unity and reconciliation in all our relationships.