The apostle Paul wrote about 3 special virtues in 1 Corinthians 13. C.S. Lewis categorized these as theological virtues, only accessible through the power of the Holy Spirit. At the conclusion of this chapter, Paul mentions hope, faith and love. Yet, love is the greatest quality to possess. In the original translation, love is replaced with charity. The author of Hebrews pleads with Christians to let charity continue in you this Christmas.
Let love for your fellow believers continue and be a fixed practice with you [never let it fail], Hebrews 13:1.
In the passage above, the author suggests that the love of Christians can come and go. While speaking about end times in Matthew 24:12, Jesus claims that the love of many will grow cold. Since all human beings have weaknesses, you may go through periods or stages in life where loving others is difficult. Instead of making excuses for being in a bad mood, the Bible calls Christians to let love continue.
Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper], Colossians 3:12.
The apostle Paul suggests that developing the right mindset is crucial to keeping love alive, Colossians 3:1-4. As you unpeel the layers of friends, family members and relatives this Christmas, don’t be surprised if someone loses that loving feeling. The past two years of the Coronavirus has brought devastation and death to countless Americans. Therefore, the best way I know to let love continue this Christmas is through clothing yourself with Jesus. Love and forgive others as Jesus has loved you, Matthew 6:14-15.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 