1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Lectio Divina {Divine Reading} Read. Reflect. Respond. Rest.
Read
1 Corinthians 13, usually called the “love chapter” is a familiar one, probably because it has often been used as a wedding text. Before I started reading I asked God what He wants me to know about love through these words today.
Reflect
I realize that when I read scripture, a question I often ask is “what does that look like?” What love looks like became very clear in verses 4-7. First there are 9 lines about what love doesn’t do (so we know that the opposite of that is what love looks like), and then there are 6 lines that tell us what love does. That’s what love looks like in 15 ways. Something to cover pretty much any circumstance we could find ourselves in.
As I was reading this, I was reminded also about a passage I’ve been reflecting on for several weeks now – Colossians 3:14 where it says “regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.” And if I was wondering all this time what that garment looks like, I now have a very clear picture.
Respond
My prayer is a longing to live out 1 Corinthians 13. I especially love the language in verse 13 and if I were to take out and apply a single idea from that verse it would be this: “But for right now … love extravagantly”. That’s a great word: love extravagantly. I’d love to be loved like that. I AM loved like that! Thank you Jesus! Teach me to love extravagantly.
Rest
The rest portion of Lectio Divina is always about sitting quietly for a few moments and being open to the love of God washing over us. The extravagant love of God.
Candice Letkeman
Candice is married to Curt and is the leader of the iPray team at Seeds Church.