How do we show our love? There is a lot of practical advice in Paul's first letter to the Corinthians. He tells them: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking" (read the whole list in 1 Corinthians 13).
He reminds them that when we love each other, we don't discount them, we give them the benefit of the doubt. We put them in a favorable position. We make sure they are seen in the best light.
I remember once when we were looking for a special painting for our living room -- we needed something perfect to be a focal point for a grand entry.
We found what we thought would be the ideal piece for the space. And we eagerly brought it home.
We considered several possible positions on the main wall so that it would be seen immediately by guests entering the room. We adjusted the lighting, angling spotlights to capture the magnificent colors in the landscape. We added a couple more tract lights and tried different slants to make certain our expensive painting would be seen in its best light. We had to accommodate the natural light in the room and also the added artificial illumination.
Yes, we were showing it off!
I think that is what Paul is talking about here. We don't seek to make ourselves look good -- we seek to make others look good. To display them in the best light. To make allowances for them. To enhance their special gifts. Even if it diminishes our importance!
We seek their good, not our own!
Isn't that what Jesus did for us? He humbled Himself so that we could be exalted. He took our place so that we could could share His...forever!
Is that the picture of love we are to follow?
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