"And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13 NRSV
Think about any long term stable relationship you have ever been in. You have confidence and trust in the other person, that faith. You look forward to more future good times with that person, that is hope. The way you feel about that person, the emotional caring and thrill you get from spending time with that person, that's love. This is true whether it's a friendship or a romantic relationship.
Today's verse provides guidance on how we are to live until the time we are united with God; we are to hold fast to our trust in him, look forward to that time when we will be with him, but most importantly we are to love him. Like in any relationship, at times our trust and hope may waver, but it is love that keeps us going. Love is a commitment, and it makes us want to work through those rocky times. This is true whether we are talking about our relationships with each other or our relationship with God.
Father God, we give thanks for your love. Sometimes we falter in our faith and hope and distance ourselves from your love. Even then you do not fail in your love for us, you love us unswervingly. When we stumble help us to remember your boundless love, and help us show that same kind of love to others. Amen.
