Whats Love Got to Do With It?

[D. Allan]

From my church newsletter:

What's Love Got to Do With It?

Tuesday, February 06, 2007 Comments (0)

"Everything," according to the apostle Paul, in his famous "love" chapter in Corinthians.

Paul's great love chapter is often used at weddings, but it's really set in the context of a debate the people of Corinth were having about who had the best spiritual gift. Paul tells them that without being based in love, no spiritual function is worth one whit. But with love at the root, even the most minor gift, act, or practice is ultimately worthwhile.

Scott Peck said it this way: "Nirvana or lasting enlightenment or true spiritual growth can be achieved only through persistent exercise of real love." And Mother Teresa made a simpler sound bite when she said, "It is not how much you do, but how much Love you put into the doing that matters. She also reminded us that "Small things, done with great love, bring joy and peace."

Ultimately, no matter what our gifts are - or are not - our lifetime's spiritual practice is to open our hearts and souls to the divine Love that creates the universe moment-by-moment, in order that this Love might flow more fully in each action we take. Maybe for some, like a Martin Luther King, that's bringing love into seeking justice for oppressed peoples, but for most of us it is to bring love into our little corner of the world, whether that is making our morning coffee or encountering a harried store clerk. As Philo of Alexandria said, "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle."

Or, as John of the Cross said simply, "where you find no love, put love, and you will find love."

For Valentine's Day, and having finally seen The Devil Wears Prada, I offer these famous alternative beauty tips Audrey Hepburn once gave a fashion magazine:

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.

For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.

For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.

For poise, walk with the knowledge you never walk alone.

If you ever need a helping hand, you’ll find one at the end of each of your arms.

Shalom,

David Hett

Minister of Religious Life and Learning

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Understanding and love are not two things, but just one. -Thich Nhat Hanh