URC Daily Devotion 9th September 2023

If I speak in the tongues of humans and of angels but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers and understand all mysteries and all knowledge and if I have all faith so as to remove mountains but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions and hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 

Reflection

Paul, after teaching about the spiritual gifts, stresses the importance of love and emphasizes that the love he is talking about here is the selfless love that puts others first. One may have various gifts and talents but should be dressed with love to draw others nearer to God, and in return, our ministry, and service to the world becomes more meaningful.

We are urged to walk the talk and act to our co-creatures, as stewards of God. God wants us to be the ones to reflect his love, to let the world see love through our actions and deeds. When we love others just as he loves us that glorifies God’s name and that proves our discipleship to our Lord (John 13:35). Loving others for our personal gain, name, and popularity is not what Paul is talking about. A selfless love that prompts you to let love move you and value the relationality based on love. Let’s affirm to live together, stay together as one, loving and working together and see change happening around us.

Prayer

Oh God, let us love one another just as you have loved us and help us to show that love in and through our actions. There are many deprived of love in terms of companionship, material things, and livelihood. Lead us on the path where we could express and show your love to those who hunger and thirst for love. Make us channels of your blessing to make others feel your love and care. In Jesus’ name, Amen.