Love is Patient

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE

In the famous love chapter, I Corinthians 13, the definition of love or loves actions starts with "Love is Patient."  Do you think there is a rhyme or reason to the order of adjectives that describe the action of love?  It struck me the other day that the possible connection to the order is far from random.  We know that GOD is LOVE.  We know that Jesus Christ personified love.  But how does it translate to our every day actions?

As I have mentioned previously, I have a 3 1/2 year old daughter who is an only child and is very independent.  Yesterday morning I was reflecting on just this section and thinking about what that means in my life.  I was feeling pretty good until life got underway for the day and when my sleepy three year old decided that eating was not part of her criteria for the day as we approached our departure time for the day, I finally turned and yelled, "PlEEEEEase Eat your BREAKfast!!!".  A still small voice in the back of my mind tapped on the door of my heart and said, "Uh huh!  See why love is patient?"  How really critical is it that she eats when I say for her to eat?  I myself am a "grazer" and have a hard time eating at the normal assigned times of the day.  My husband is the same way.  Why would she be any different?  (Deep breath)

Jesus was so very patient and kind (second reference for love).  He patiently told Peter 3 times that he would be denying knowing Christ.  I imagine that as He looked at Judas in that upper room, He was disappointed and yet the embodiment of love within Him did not allow for Jesus to treat Judas differently.  As Christ sat with Mary and Martha busied into the room, I imagine she exploded as Christ about Mary not helping her.  Perhaps she even interrupted Him as He was teaching Mary and yet He quietly shook His head and looked in love at Martha, knowing exactly who she was in that moment, and lovingly reminded her that Mary had chosen well.  Again and again we see the example.  Different circumstances and different people but the same action.  The 10 lepers that Christ healed and only one came back to thank Him.  He knew before He ever saw them that only one would be grateful.  The Pharisees and Sadducee were explained to over and over again.  

In my own life, the choices I have made, my heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit have gently reminded me and reminded me and reprimanded me or delivered quiet consequence for my actions.  I may not receive the consequence quietly but I certainly receive it that way.  

How do you show love to those closest to you?  Love your neighbor as yourself.  I heard someone point out the other day that your family members are your neighbors as well as those who live outside your home.  How well do we exemplify LOVE?