By Becky Ahlberg
Wednesday, December 30
Read 1 Corinthians 13 through the lens of Christmas. Verses 1-3 can sum up much of our problem with the whole Christmas season: it is filled with busyness and observances that are often void of “the real meaning of Christmas.” Why? Because they “do not have love.”
How many gifts did you give out of obligation? How many parties did you attend because it wouldn”t look good to miss them? I hope you were able to do plenty of things that were filled with love. That is what keeps the season overflowing with love and thankfulness, instead of just feeling busy.
Love and thankfulness should go hand in hand. Gratitude is a mature expression of love that deepens it. It”s the difference between a coerced “thank you” from a child and a heartfelt expression of affection and commitment affirming a loving relationship.
First Corinthians 13 is about being a grown-up; about leaving childishness behind and looking forward to deeper and deeper love. I think that is why love is greater than faith and hope, which are built on expectations and promise. Love is built on experience. Today, remind yourself of the experience of God”s love in your life . . . and be grateful.
Offer him your love and devotion because you are so grateful to know him and be known by him. May you “be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God” (v. 19) today and always.
Author: Christian Standard
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