Devotion:
Read 1 Coninthians 13.
This is one of those Bible passages that every Christian should read regularly (at least once a month). It is a core, guiding passage for who we are and how we are to conduct ourselves as the people of Jesus Christ.
It is in the middle of three chapters where Paul is dealing with divisions among the Christians at Corinth in the first century. The stated issue is “spiritual gifts” but it is how the people of the house churches there had allowed that issue to become one of division that is his focus. He emphasizes there is only one thing that will repair those relationships: the love that Jesus Christ taught and lived. Emphasizing that same message has often been needed for Christians in many places every since then. Certainly, it is needed for us in our nation today.
Maybe his opening would be different today. (If I speak up for the values of my political party, but do not have love…. Whether I wear a mask or not, if I do not show love toward those who do the opposite…) However, the definitions for this love are still the same. (I am especially drawn to the NRSV translation of part of verse 5: “It does not insist on its own way.”) And his conclusion is still the same: even though faith and hope are powerful forces in our life with Christ, it is his love living in us and through us that most reveals we belong to him. (John 13:35)
Personal Worship Option:
Of the definitions for love offered in verses 4-8a, which one is most difficult for you? Pray and ask our Lord to help you grow in that part of his love, so that you can better show that part of his love to others.
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