Love in action

Jesus made took the teaching of the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:1-9) to another level  when the Pharisees asked Him what was the greatest commandment. Matthew 22:34-40. (KJV). He quoted the Deuteronomy passage to them and then added, “And love your neighbor as yourself”.  What a declaration!  What an announcement!  That God comes in human flesh and states that a new commandment is given.  I find it interesting, when believers think about the definition of love, their attention is naturally drawn to the lofty and grand description of 1 Corinthians 13 Many do not know, however that this chapter is found between Paul's instructions about what spiritual gifts are in 1 Corinthians 12 and how they are to be used in the lives of believers in 1 Corinthians 14.  Jesus told the disciples to not leave Jerusalem until they had received the gift that He promised. (Acts 1:4-5). Thankfully, the whole Bible gives us instruction on how love is to be characterized in relation to one another. May we be reminded that our Spirit-directed ministry should be characterized by unselfish giving, praying, and service to others. Praise God!