Extraordinary Love - 1 Corinthians 13.1-13 Psalm 86.1-7; Matthew 25.31-40; Mark 12.28-3.

In the final part of the reading, Paul is reaching for something that he acknowledges is inexpressible in this life – the fullness of love that we will find when we know God as God knows us. [...] We are to show this love in action not only to people we know but also to the ‘stranger’, who we should welcome as a friend. [...] How wholehearted are we in our love for God and for our neighbours? How can we recommit to living out this love in action? What actions will we take this week to show love to those affected by poverty? • Love isn’t always easy. [...] As one of the pivotal events in the formation of the early Christian church, this remains important for the church today. [...] • What are the obstacles that stand in the way of people living out their gifts? In the power of the Spirit, we are called to speak prophetically, to dream, to speak about 6 our God-given visions for the world and the church.