After all the quarrelling, jealousy, and competition in the Corinthian community, Paul encouraged them to think in terms of being Christ's body. They had been competing with their spiritual gifts, and so he gave them a 'more excellent' spiritual way - love. In the well-known and beautiful description of love, Paul insists that it does not exalt or puff up the self but is always concerned with the happiness and well-being of others. Love is sensitive to the feelings and dignity of others and never knowingly causes another hurt. If we would remember and practice what Paul taught in this passage we would be different people and the world a different sort of place. Christ's entire message could be summed up by love.

People have different ideas about holiness. Many criticized John the Baptist for being very ascetical about food, drink, and clothing - they called him a madman. When Jesus ate and drank in a normal manner, they called him a glutton and a drunkard. People want God and those whom God sends to dance to their tune. But we have to listen to what God wants of us, not other people. The definition of a holy person is how well they love, not what they eat and drink or how they dress. Let us strive to excel in loving others.