In plain words
When the Buddha was attaining nirvāṇa, Ānanda, the son of his aunt, began to grieve. Then the Buddha: “Ānanda! Do you not want me to attain nirvāṇa? Why are you shedding streams of tears? You too, develop Prema as I did and try to attain nirvāṇa,” he taught him. Ānanda put the Buddha's teachings into practice and experienced true Ānanda.
Embodiments of Prema! Be friendly with everyone. But do not forget the truth that God alone is your true friend. Only after friendship does ātmanivedana become possible. So, first of all, make friends with God. If you want friendship, develop Prema. At the bank the cashier has money in plenty. But if you ask for money without having made a deposit, will he give it? He will not. You must have paid in some deposit beforehand, and then write out a cheque. In the same way, you must first pay in with God the deposit called faith. You must hand over the cheque called pure Prema. Only then can you receive the wealth called grace.