“And now these three remain..." By Breanna Carter

I recently read a great book telling the story of a family from Texas negatively affected by the Great Dust Bowl in the 1930s. The family moved to California with the big promise of “a land flowing with milk and honey.” Their time in California was marked by hardship, unmet expectations, and relational strife. Throughout the story, you see the complicated relationship between a mother and her teenage daughter. But when tragedy hits this small family, the one thing the daughter continually returns to is her mom’s voice saying, “My love will always remain.” 

That simple, grounding promise was foundational for the daughter, and it mirrors a truth found in holy scripture. In 1 Corinthians, Paul speaks to a church filled with talented people and big ideas who were arguing and losing sight of what mattered most: love. Paul reminds them that while almost everything in life eventually fades or changes, love never fails; love remains. 

This weekend, I will have the honor of gathering with clergy and lay leaders of color in our diocese at Camp McDowell. We will share many stories, participate in programs centered on healing and forgiveness, and enjoy lots of fellowship. My prayer for this gathering, and for our entire diocese, is shaped by the lesson of that mother’s voice and Paul’s words to the Corinthians. 

I pray that we truly believe that God’s love never fails. Despite difficult circumstances, struggles, mistakes, or plans that fall apart, His love remains constant. 

Whatever you’re facing this week, month, or year, hold onto that promise. Love remains. 

“And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13