An attractive thought: the origin of Paul's reflections on love is actually a meditation on Jesus. For Jesus is the incarnate love and concern of God. Therefore, if love is patient and kind, it is because Jesus in His earthly life was patient and kind, and so we continue: Jesus was never jealous, boastful, conceited, rude, selfish, easily offended, resentful. Jesus never delighted in other people's sin or misfortune, but delighted in hope to endure whatever came.

Let us contemplate this Jesus who is thus revealed to us. Where in Scripture do I see this Jesus? "Come to me¡KI am meek and humble of heart", "Your sins are forgiven", "Your faith has made you well", "I lay down my life for my sheep".

In His relationship with me in my own life, Jesus is patient and kind; He is never resentful of me; He takes no pleasure in my sins. How do I experience this in my life?

And I? Am I always patient and kind, never jealous, boastful, conceited, rude, selfish, resentful?

Do I always delight in the truth, the truth of God's love, and does this truth set me free?