“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” (1 Cor. 13:1-3)

According to 1 Corinthians 13, LOVE is the greatest thing one can have. This reminds me of a few of my latest experiences.

In the past month, I’ve visited a few BTJ training centers. Surprisingly, my soul was moved deeply by meeting a group of Iranians. I felt such a deep connection with them after being with them for only a week that I am shaken. I was shaken because of the love I felt from the Iranians. Many think of Iran as a hotbed of terrorism, where many are killed for wanting freedom of speech, but now that I have been with these Iranians for such a short period, I know that we western believers need to love more deeply. Many I know want to have the gift of tongues and/or prophecy, but never seek love.

These Iranians love their people so much that they are willing to die for the chance to give others the opportunity to hear about their Savior. They do not have a death wish, but they do not fear death because their love is stronger than their fear.

In these months after the festive season, I pray that we remember kindness, joy, and love. But most of all, love. I beseech thee to pray for those who are lost, but pray that God gives love and encouragement to those who are on the field, showing love to the many who have not heard.