1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
Today’s verse is a favorite for weddings and Valentine’s Day cards. It is often quoted and many people recognize it, even if they are not regular church goers. The Greek word used for love in this verse is again agape.
Though it is used greatly in weddings, it is not romantic love (eros). Instead, the verse actually refers to the perfect love or divine, unconditional love of God. It is probably widely used because it is an active love, not a one time emotion. As we said, it is selfless and unconditional in approach, which is the way the Father feels for us. It focuses on the needs of others, making it an easy jump from God’s perfect love to the love a couple is proclaiming for one another.
Love is patient. Sometimes it is hard to be patient with others, especially when they are getting on your last nerve or testing you. As a parent myself, this is a great reminder to me to be patient with my youngest because I love her. I am reminded to actively choose to show love rather than annoyance or irritation. This type of love is controlled and holds back, even when provoked. There is no retaliation when your love demonstrates patience.
Love is also kind. It takes action, looking for different ways in which it might be helpful and serve others. And in some cases serving others comes at a great personal cost. In addition to patience and kindness, love also doesn’t envy, boast, and is not proud.
Each of these attributes can be used to describe perfect love, the love of God in action and which we seek to emulate. We are not perfect and we have our flaws, but we strive to love as God has loved us. Look for opportunities to love others in the same way that God loves you.
Prayer: Lord, Help me to demonstrate perfect, unconditional love. Let me be patient and kind. Help me not to be envious or boastful. And may my love not be proud or haughty. Amen
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