“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres” (1 Corinthians 13:6-7, NIV).

     Robert Fulghum once told of the time he attended a Greek wedding. During the reception, the bride’s grandparents were overheard arguing. In Greek, the grandmother was chastising her husband for taking one too many pieces of baklava. Fulghum turned to a family friend and asked what the conflict was all about. The friend said, “Oh, there’s no conflict. That is just our grandparent’s way of making love.”

     Being gracious is not the same thing as being nice. Being nice prompts one not to make waves. Love sometimes makes waves in order to accomplish its primary goal—to better the life of the other.

     Grandmother’s reason for reprimanding her husband was born out of concern for his health. The couple had enjoyed more than half a century together. Grandmother hoped to extend the relationship for at least a few more years.

     Paul claimed that love is not easily angered. Yet, when the life of someone we care for is in jeopardy, the fighter in all of us comes out. Paul said, “Love always protects” (1 Corinthians 13:7). Perhaps we would all be a little better off if the people who love us would rebuke us a bit more often. A little fuss never hurt anyone.

     So, friend, take it from someone who himself should put down the dessert. Getting your hand slapped is a good thing. It could be the greatest gift of love you’ll receive today.

Prayer:
Lord God, help me today to speak your truth in the spirit of love. Even more, grant me the capacity to receive constructive criticism without becoming defensive. Through Christ’s name I pray. Amen.