"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:4–7
These verses are most commonly read at weddings as a beautiful description of "agape" love in marriage. There is a lot of truth and hope in these words for sustaining a meaningful, godly marriage.
However, Paul wrote these words in very different context for a very different purpose. In a survey of the book of 1 Corinthians, Paul rebukes a church that has lost its way. It was a church were envy and strife were common place. He rebukes arrogant and boastful people who pretended to be godly. There was rampant immorality and even an incestuous relationship. Then there was a prideful attack on different ways of worship.
It is in this context that Paul instructs what love is and what love is not. He points us to a better way. He shows the love of Christ in the midst of chaos and controversy.
Very much so, as I see the state of affairs today, we need this very same message. What would happen if we truly lived out these words today? What happened if we didn't just think about these words when it came to our spouses, our romantic interests, and put it into the context of everyday life in America, and begin to love our neighbor and enemies in this way.
If we could learn to love the way Christ loved us, you know, when He left Heaven to pursue sinners, even pursuing us to the cross (Romans 5:8). If we could love the unlovely, those who disagree with us, and treat them with kindness. If we could look to build bridges instead of divisions. If we could seek the true good of others, instead of just getting on our soap boxes. If we could do these things, we can make a difference.
Your love for others would shine brightly, and that would make God smile. "Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven" (Matthew 5:16).
With this in mind, may we pursue love like in this fashion. Pursue love today!
No comments:
Post a Comment