Day 19 Advent Devotional | December 22nd
1 Corinthians 13:13
But now faith, hope, love, abide these three;
but the greatest of these is love.
It’s quite common to attend a wedding and to hear, at some point during the ceremony, a portion of 1 Corinthians 13 read and/or referenced by either the pastor or another participant. The words are elegant and memorable, and they serve as an appropriate charge to the couple regarding the type of love they should have for each other.
An interesting truth about the oft referenced passage concerns its placement in the book of 1 Corinthians. The primary audience of the chapter is not a husband and wife. Instead, the “Love Chapter” is part of a greater body of scripture written to the local church. The body of Christ is best when it works together. A local church is most healthy when the participants live within their God-given giftedness while collectively pursuing God’s mission. And all this is impossible unless the people of God love one another.
This Christmas season will be especially challenging for some…and maybe you are one of those people. It will be the first season without a loved one. It could possibly be a first Christmas for some who find that they are in a new place while living out a new chapter in life. Despite the challenges this season might hold, I want you to know that there is hope and love from the one true God who is faithful. And I pray you will intentionally comfort those around you with this truth and with His love.
Prayer: Father, give me eyes to see those who need to be seen. Give me compassion for those who need a gentle word and uplifted spirit. Thank you for loving me. Please help me love those around me the way you would have me to love them.