Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Cor 13:13
Lord Jesus, this life-defining verse reminds me of an image that dates me. On the same stage I watched The Beatles perform live in 1964, a guy would occasionally showcase his plate spinning skills. It was the Ed Sullivan Show—a standard for our family. I know John, Paul, George, and Ringo, but not “plate-spinner’s” name. But I certainly learned to spin more and more plates in life—eventually to the point of burnout.
10,000 thanks for slowing me down and centering my heart—even though it took severe mercy. Jesus, with those who join me in this Gospel-prayer community, we pray the rest of our lives will be consumed, not with plate-spinning, but with these three abiding realities: Faith, Hope, and Love.
Faith—knowing you, the Father, and the Holy Spirit—for this is “eternal life” (John 17:3). The more intimately we know, love, and trust you, the less we’ll be tempted to define life by how many “plates” we can simultaneously spin, for the approval of others—whoever our “others” happens to be.
Hope—having our hearts increasingly filled with every good thing you’ve won for us, Jesus. Being certain (and enthralled) about the life we’ll enjoy forever in the new heaven and new earth. So much so, we’ll spend the rest of our days loving mercy, working for justice, and walking humbly with you (Micah 6:8).
Love—loving others as you love us (John 13:34-35). It’s that simple, profound, and daily. Constantly astonish, humble, and free us by your love, Lord Jesus. So very Amen we pray, in your great and gracious name.