This year, I am exploring the different aspects of charity as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 13. I would love to know any experiences or insights you have as we go throughout the year.
This month, we are studying “Charity seeketh not her own.” (As a side note, I like that charity is referred to with the feminine pronoun.) I’ve already been thinking a lot about this, trying to find deep and layered meanings in this sentence.
Most certainly, “Charity seeketh not her own” refers to unselfishness, being willing to share what we have with others. This doesn’t just mean money or food or resources. I think it also means sharing our time, our talents, and our compassion with other people. When I think of someone who “seeks her own,” I picture a little kid sitting in the corner of a room hoarding her candy, unwilling to share it with any of the other children. How does selfishness keep us from having charity?
I’ve also thought about this phrase in relation to pride. Are we truly happy for other people’s success? Am I ever guilty of only being glad when my child is the winner or the most important person or the most accomplished student? When we are only interested in the success of those closest to us, are we “seeking our own.”
How does acceptance and inclusion factor into “seeking not our own”? When someone different from me comes to church or moves into the neighborhood, do I try to be welcoming and inclusive, or do I “circle the wagons” and refuse to let anyone into my fellowship who doesn’t fit a certain mold?
Just a few things to think about this month. I’d love to know if you discover anything new.
