Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 

Poets have lived and poets have written, and they have spent their time reflecting on the most beautiful word called “love.” Paul had the gift of giving the longest list of definition and explanation of love. And the first definition of love, according to Paul, is suffering long for the one you love, be it faith, be it a person, be it your nation. If you love, you need to endure pain and suffer longer. “Love suffers long” (1 Cor 13:4). Mothers show in action the meaning of the word called love in their bearing the pain in labor and giving birth. May we praise God for His love that is the most beautiful, and enjoy it and understand it, and extend it to anyone who is most in need. 

Abba, Thank You for bearing with us because of Your love. Let Your Spirit help us follow You by loving others in turn, in Jesus’ Most Loving Name, Amen.