Love Does Not Seek Its Own.
Pope Shenouda III explains one of the essential characteristics of true love: Love does not seek its own interests (1 Corinthians 13:5).
A spiritual person places God first, others second, and himself last. True love does not seek personal glory, authority, comfort, or recognition; instead, it seeks God’s glory and the good of others.
The Pope illustrates this principle through several biblical examples:
- John the Baptist: Who said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30).
- St. Paul the Apostle: Who endured suffering and hardships for the sake of serving God, without seeking personal comfort or glory.
- St. Anthony: Who left his wealth, family, and worldly pleasures to devote his life to God.
- Moses: Who chose to suffer with God’s people rather than enjoy the temporary pleasures of sin.
- Abraham: Who demonstrated his complete obedience and love for God through his willingness to offer Isaac.
The Pope emphasizes that genuine love should be reflected in every aspect of life, especially in service, giving, family relationships, and marriage.
A true servant does not seek leadership, power, or recognition. Instead, he serves for God’s glory. Likewise, a successful marriage is built on mutual sacrifice, care, and seeking each other’s comfort rather than personal interests.
In spiritual life, believers are encouraged to focus their prayers on God Himself, contemplating His glory, holiness, and divine attributes. Even repentance should come from sorrow for having grieved God’s heart, not merely from fear of personal consequences.
Main Message: True love means putting God first and living for Him and for others rather than seeking personal gain. As St. Paul declared:
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20)
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