In this Bible verse, Paul lists a cluster of nine qualities which together he calls as the fruit of the Spirit, but of all these, love takes the first place. If we ask people, what is the chief distinguishing mark of a Christian, we get different answers. Some say truth, some say correct doctrines, some say faith and others say integrity and still others emphasize service. Yes, all these are indispensable characters a Christian should have, but nothing can take the place of love. For The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are united to each other in selfgiving love. Love is the principal, the paramount, the preeminent, the distinguishing characteristic of the people of God. Nothing can dislodge or replace it, Love is supreme.

Dear friends, we live in a world where love is becoming a rare commodity. Even within the family, love between parents and children, love between husband and wife, and love between the siblings is diminishing and as a result unity is lost and relationship is strained. As children of a loving Father, let us love one another. If we put on love the prime fruit of the Spirit then joy and peace will automatically follow. When we are filled with God’s love, we would be more patient even with irritating people. We would be kind to others even if they treat us badly. We would serve others and be good to them. We would be faithful in all our dealings, and our promises. We would show our gentleness to all. Above all, we would master our self and be controlled by the Holy Spirit. So let us crucify our self with Christ. Let us be filled with the Holy Spirit who pours out God’s love into our hearts. Let us strive to become like Jesus, who possessed all these nine qualities in Him.

 

 

 

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