Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read 1 Corinthians 13:8-13.
Today in worship we will be finishing up this sermon series on “Cleaning Up Life’s Messes.” In this portion of Paul’s letter to the Christians in Corinth, he was addressing a messy situation. They had allowed the gifts the Holy Spirit had given them to cause tension and division among them, because some felt their gift was more important than others. Apparently, gifts related to prophesying, speaking in tongues (a “Spirit language”) and having Biblical knowledge were some of the major areas that had “caused the mess.” He opened this section with a statement about each of those, then came back to them here, emphasizing that each of them has their limits. (I particularly take note that he mentions our “partial” knowledge twice in these few verses. In other words, none of us have all the truth.)
In the middle of addressing all of this is his focus on love. It is the most vital gift God offers to all of us. It is the gift which holds us together as the Body of Christ. It is what allows us to stay connected in the midst of our differences. He closes with three powerful “life forces”: faith, hope and love. And even among those three, love is still at the top. May it be that each and every one of us continue to grow in this love of Christ so that we can more fully be the people of Christ.
Personal Worship Option:
Pray this prayer or one in your own words: Lord of life and love, thank you so much for the love you have shown to me and everybody else. Please continue to challenge and guide me to grow in your love, so that I may live it toward everyone I meet. Through Christ, Amen.
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