And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
1 Corinthians 13:13 KJV
The Context:
Paul writes to the church in Corinth, highlighting the principles, practices and peculiarities of the personality of charity, called love in other versions. He very clearly lays out what love is and what it is not. He leaves us in no doubt as to the true measure of what love from God's perspective is: it has to look like God. The perfect example has been laid out and only that which is in line with the example will be blessed by God. I can make all the right noises and even know what the practices are; if it is not the real thing, it can never pass as the real thing. So, I check my life again: is what my life professing in line with what God is demanding?
The Charge:
Love is the greatest. Other practices of faith are very important, such as faith and hope. They are all central to the Christian faith, but love is presented as the greatest. Faith is first personal, before it ever flows out in public service. Hope is never seen in its raw form, but its presence is seen from the private and public life of the person who has it. The man with faith and hope is full of life and vitality, because there is someone in him who keeps him focused and committed. Yet, one day soon, when the mortal gives way to immortality, faith and hope will find fulfilment, and be of no more use. The end of faith and hope is eternal life; they keep our eye on that which is truly important.
The Conclusion:
Love, on the other hand, has no such limitation. No matter the side of eternity you stand, love is relevant. It is love that brought salvation to man, and it is love that draws the hearts of men back to Jesus. It is love that allows faith and hope find expression in and through me. I can relate with anyone because I know who I am and what I have received. Love is the person of God; God also gives hope and helps our faith, but love is always described as God's nature. My faith and hope may not directly be seen physically, but love in my heart cannot be denied. My life will be a visible expression of that love. Does this describe me? God's time of favour is here.
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