Daily Catholic Lectio
Wed, 18 Sep 2024
XXIV Week in Ordinary Time, Wednesday
1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13. Luke 7:31-35
Not seeking one’s interests
Today’s readings emphasize the nature of true love, particularly the idea that “love does not seek its own interests.” St. Paul’s beautiful discourse (hymn) on love and Jesus’ teaching about the people of His generation both challenge us to reflect on how we live out love in our own lives.
1. The nature of true love – selfless and sacrificial
In the first reading (1 Cor 13:4-7), St. Paul gives us a profound description of love: “Love is patient, love is kind… it does not insist on its own way.” In Greek ‘love’ is expressed in four words: ‘eros’ (physical or erotic love), ‘phileo’ (friendship), ‘storge’ (parental love), and ‘agape’ (selfless, sacrificial love). Paul, after analysing the problems in the Corinthian community such as division, dissension, fornication, idolatry, differentiation, alienation, and competition, identifies that the underlying issue is ‘seeking one’s own interests.’ Having identified the issue, he takes them away from ‘seeking one’s own interest’ to ‘seeking love.’ This love, which Paul speaks of, is not self-centred but is willing to sacrifice and put others first. It’s a love that goes beyond mere emotions or feelings and is expressed through actions that seek the good of others.
In our relationships, whether in our families, communities, or workplaces, we are called to embody this selfless love. This means being patient and kind even when it’s difficult, forgiving when wronged, and giving without expecting anything in return. True love challenges us to go beyond our own desires and comforts to serve others, reflecting the love of Christ who gave Himself for us.
2. Love is not self-serving – the example of Jesus
In the gospel reading (Luke 7:31-35), Jesus speaks about the people of His generation, criticizing their selfish and self-centred attitudes. They were like children in the marketplace, dissatisfied whether it was time for dancing or mourning. This imagery shows how people often look for their own interests and desires, missing the greater message of God’s love and grace.
Jesus didn’t come to seek His own interests but to do the will of the Father and to serve humanity. We, as His followers, are called to this same selfless love. It means letting go of our need to always have things our way and being open to the needs and concerns of others. By doing so, we become witnesses of Christ’s love in a world that often prioritizes self-interest.
3. Love is the greatest gift – the way to true fulfilment
St. Paul concludes 1 Corinthians 13 by stating, “So faith, hope, and love remain, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” He reminds us that all other gifts, abilities, or achievements are incomplete without love. Love is the greatest because it leads us to true fulfilment – a life that mirrors God’s own love for us.
Our world often measures success by what we gain for ourselves – be it wealth, power, or status. However, St. Paul teaches us that the true measure of a life well-lived is love. When we prioritize love that does not seek its own interests, we find true joy and fulfilment. This love becomes a testimony to the world of the transformative power of the Gospel, drawing others to the love of Christ.
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The ‘pilgrims of hope’ strive to put others before themselves and seek the good of those around them. (Jubilee 2025 AD, bite 202)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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