Into the Fire

Romance is a word that conjures all kinds of pictures in the mind, wistful thoughts, turbulent desires, some would even entertain fantasy lusts when hearing that provocative word. Connotations from men and women can vary to the extreme. Men might perceive it as an avenue to sexual gratification. Women might perceive it as a unique demonstration of what could be love. 

So what is at the root of romance? Like so many other abstracts, it might be a matter of opinion. So here's mine. I should stipulate right now I'm not going to delve into the world's view of romance other than the basics. I'm examining the initial application of romantic inclinations, not the one-night-stand encounters of sexual attraction.

At the base of romance is attraction. This is where "it" all begins. Something about that someone hits the heart of emotion and causes a reaction. What happens next usually takes place in the mind. The fears or doubts, the exciting possibilities, the "is this person the one?", the mishmash of imaginings that either stay on the surface level or go deep.

When a man succumbs to romance, it's because he feels like he wants to do something special for this woman. She's inspired some kind of desire in him to separate her from others in his life. He might not know exactly how he wants to do this thing, but at least he'll entertain the idea.

When a woman wants to do something romantic for "her" man, she'll usually appeal to his senses. If she's observant – as well she should be if there's mutual attraction goin' on – she'll figure out what entertains him and plan something special for him incorporating that sensual element. Notice I said "sensual" not "sexual". There's a distinct difference.

The end result of romance points to love. Not all romantic endeavors lead to the deeper places of actually falling in love, but motivation for romance rarely stays at a just-for-fun place. When real romance enters the picture, the timeless aspects of falling hard for someone usually take effect. 

Now, tell me your thoughts on what's at the crux of romance. 

Father, romance is all yours, Love is you, and all things pure and righteous in the relationship area belong to you. Thank you for making it all more than the shallow encounters so often seen from the worldview. We're desperate for you in every area of our lives but none more than the love place. Help us all to do love right. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.