My reflection at church was based on 1 Corinthians 13, the” love chapter,” and Matthew 22: 34 – 40, The Greatest Commandment. Both scripture passages talk about love. In today’s world, we use the word “love” mostly to describe a feeling. We love winter vacations. We love our new shirt. We love ice cream.

          Love is so much more than a feeling. St. Paul in his famous letter to the church in Corinth described love as an action. He gave us a long list of actions that are part of loving:

          “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” (NIV 1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

          That’s quite a list. We hear this Bible passage often at weddings and nod in agreement. It’s full of wonderful thoughts for the newly weds and their guests, but I’m thinking we need to hear it much more often.

          Today I ask you to reread St. Paul’s words. This time, replace the words “love is,” with “I am.”

                    “I am patient with those I love.” Well I try. Sometimes I succeed.

                    “I am kind with….” Well most of the time. Sometimes I fail with telemarketers.

                   “I keep no record of wrongs.” Now that’s almost impossible.

         And the list goes on. We know we need God’s help with loving as we are called to love. I suggest you go through the whole list. Think of how many of St. Paul’s statements are visible in your loving. Look at your life. How often do you act in love.

        What better way to begin Lent than with St. Paul’s teaching on love.