Some of you may know Corinthians 13 as the Bible passage most often recited at weddings.  It’s the one about the nature of love. During most wedding ceremonies I have attended or been directly involved in, when Corinthians 13 is read, during the service, that’s when the whole crowd gets the most still.   It’s  message is unmistakable.  It’s truth and clarity are always moving and certainly enduring. 

A few years ago, a friend sent me a paraphrased version of Corinthians 13 with the holiday season in mind.  I have sent it around to my friends every year, since,  as a reminder for all of us to consider the true meaning of the season.  Now, through the magic of the internet, I can send it this year, to many thousands of people who read this blog regularly, in more than 42 countries.  I hope it will be a meaningful message you will want to share with your family and friends this holiday season.

THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS via CORINTHIANS 13

If I decorate my house perfectly, with tall fresh trees, strands of lights,  and beautiful bows, but bark at my family because they are in my way and I have a schedule to keep, then I become just another decorator.

If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arrange a beautifully adorned table but do not show love to my family, then I am just another cook.

If I work at the soup kitchen or the food bank, carol in the nursing home and give all that I can to charity…..but do not show love to my family…..all the other is for show and will not profit the ones I love most.

If I attend holiday parties, dressed in my best, and swap the cookies with all the rest or sing in the choir without focusing on the birth of Christ and the reason for the season, then I have missed the point all together.

Love does not compete.

Love stops cooking to hug a child.

Love sets aside the decor to hug a tired husband, or call a friend whose life is upside down.

Love is kind, even though harried and tired.

Love does not envy another’s home that has coordinated china and immaculate floors.

Love does not yell at the kids to get out of the way.  Love is thankful that they are whole and healthy and here to stay.

Love does not give only to those who can give in return.  Love does not count the amount or the size of the gift.  Love does not compare.

Love forgives the slights, both given and received.

Love says, “I’ve done enough”. 

When the necklaces break and the golf clubs rust, when the videos get old, and firewood is dust, love is what’s still there—-before and after and always.  

Love bears all things.  Love believes all things. Love hopes all things.  Love endures all things.

MERRY CHRISTMAS