"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." - 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
I was excited when Leigh asked me to write my thoughts on a passage of scripture, but when I saw the one she sent me, I panicked! I always thought of this passage in the context of weddings, so I did what we should all do. I took a breath, closed my eyes, and said, “God why this one, and why is it making me “itchy”?”
His answer came quickly, “why the hesitation, don’t you live these words?” Sadly, I must admit, I do not always. When I love, I love deeply, but patience is not one of my strong suits. I try to be kind, but sometimes my well-intentioned words sting the ears they land on. I have tried to not be envious of others, but on occasion I feel that way. I try not to be boastful, but there are times I am so happy about something I have done, that my excitement may translate to boasting.
When it comes to dishonoring others, I try hard not to do such a thing. I try to allow people to “save face,” for to me, that is better than being right. I know that love should not be easily angered, yet I still get mad. Heaven knows, I am letting go of the “wrongs” I think have been done to me, but I struggle in that endeavor. I have always believed that love and truth go hand in hand, and that God handles the Evil and I am grateful that I do not have that task.
I look at this passage and when I measure God’s love against human love, I am grateful that in his/her love I am always protected, I can trust that love is secure, that my hope is in a solid foundation, and that this love perseveres.
Prayer:
God, it is me, for today and if only for today, let me love others like you love me. Amen!