Some could speak in tongues, some had the gift of healing, and others could prophecy. These gifts were good in themselves, but the Corinthians were failing to value the greatest gift of all, the gift of love. For St. Paul love was practical, down to earth, a day-in and a day-out of dealing with each other. “Love is kind.” How could he have put it more simply and more directly? We have to be kind to each other: to say “please” and “thank you” and “pardon me.” “Love is patient.” How hard it is always to be patient with those with whom we live or work, not to let them get on our nerves or annoy us with their concerns when we are not interested. “Love is not jealous. Love is not snobbish. Love is not rude. Love does not put on airs.” Every item in his list is practical. Love never fails.
It has been observed by spiritual writers that St. Paul’s letter the word “love” can be replaced with the name “Christ.” Christ is patient, Christ is kind, Christ never fails. The Eucharist is the means for growing in Christ-like love. When we have received Holy Communion, we must pray: “Lord, transform me and all my affections. Help me to love, as You love.” St. Paul observes that the three great virtues are faith, hope and love. When we get to heaven we will no longer need faith because we will see God face to face. We will no longer need hope because we will achieved our goal. But we will have the greatest of all virtues; we will have love. We can begin eternity now by praying for and by putting into practice a Christ-like love for each other.