If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing .

I Corinthians 13: 1-2

Mother Teresa was well known for living a life that exuded the love of Jesus Christ and for making powerful statements about love. One that comes to mind today, states: “It’s not about how much you do, but how much love you put into what you do that counts. ”This sentiment echoes the words of the apostle Paul to the Corinthian church. The greatest spiritual attribute any of us could ever have is love.

 The Bible is filled with accounts of people that demonstrated deep faith and exercised great spiritual gifts. For instance: Job’s faith and perseverance, Abraham’s obedience, Joseph and Daniel’s gift of interpreting dreams, Paul’s fervor for our LORD, Mary’s humility, Elijah and Elisha’s mighty acts, and King Solomon’s wisdom. These are all commendable, but they are nothing (emphasis mine) without love.

What is love? Love is not a feeling. Feelings fade with time. Love is not an argument about how right you are politically, spiritually, or prophetically. 1 John 4:7-8 gives us a clear definition of love. “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” It is that simple.

In today’s tense political and racial environment, do you have room for love; pure, untainted, and holy love? It is not just about going to church on Sunday, or about the political or religious views you hold, it is all about the love that we put into everything we do otherwise it is all nothing (1 Corinthians 3:13).  Jesus was willing to lay down his life so that we could have eternal life. What are you willing to lay down so that our beloved nation can dwell in peace? Have a reflective week and may the Holy Spirit soften the hardness of our hearts so that we might love others as Christ has loved us (1 John 4:20).

Almighty God, forgive me for times when I have been divisive in my thinking and in my actions. Fill me with the power of your Spirit, so that I might learn to forgive and love as you have forgiven me and loved me. AMEN!