Our pastor is preaching a series on brotherly love, directly from 1 Corinthians 13. Yesterday morning, as I sat in my seat, soaking up Pastor Kevin’s words – words spoken as if they were just for me – I couldn’t help but reflect on God’s love and how I fall short of demonstrating His love through my actions.
As adults we have established a certain code of etiquette, if you will, of which kindness and respect is most often included. We refer to our elders as Sir and Ma’am. We apologetically say excuse me when we’ve caused an interruption. If you are anything like me, you are quick to say I’m sorry if you have done wrong, and you’re happy to make those around you feel comfortable.
As a mother I strive to teach my children how to behave properly. I expect them to be kind and considerate to each other, their peers, and their elders. Rude and inappropriate behavior, unkind words, and prideful attitudes never go unchecked.
But if I have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.
I think of myself as a fairly considerate person, but all too often I am unkind, impatient, and downright rude – lacking in love. I yell at my children and snap at my husband. I complain about how inconsiderate my neighbors are and neglect to treat them with compassion. I harbor bitterness towards those who have hurt or offended me (or my children) and show no true forgiveness.
Yesterday, as I sat in church, the Spirit gently reminded me that God is love and through His grace alone can I truly love.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, 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.
How good-natured and amiable is Christian charity (love)! How excellent would Christianity appear to the world, if those who profess it were more under this Divine principle, and paid due regard to the command on which its blessed Author laid the chief stress! Let us ask whether this Divine love dwells in our hearts. Has this principle guided us into becoming behaviour to all men? Are we willing to lay aside selfish objects and aims? Here is a call to watchfulness, diligence, and prayer. -Matthew Henry
{ 1 trackback }