Part of Pope Francis’ analytical discussion of 1 Corinthians mentions the importance of remaining humble: “Love…is marked by humility; if we are to understand, forgive and serve others from the heart, our pride has to be healed and our humility must increase” (70). This explains how, in striving to lead a life of compassion and consideration for others, we may be healed from our selfish and sinful tendencies. This kind of lifestyle is the foundation of love as a virtue. Just as Jesus was patient, kind, and compassionate toward us in our time of wrongdoing/need for salvation, it is essential that we actively practice these virtues in our marital and family lives. With our spouses and children alike, we must display the willingness to put their needs before our own. Acting humbly, then, is an active demonstration and development of love.
Besides living humbly, a person may practice true endurance in order to develop love as a virtue to its fullest capacity. Pope Francis teaches us that “love does not yield to resentment, scorn for others or the desire to hurt or to gain some advantage” (81). Rather, living lovingly means to embrace every challenge openly, and with a positive attitude. In our confidence and willingness to encounter all obstacles, we prove that love is a virtue that never gives up and never fails. In family life, this kind of strength is a foundational necessity to set stability and examples for future generations. When parents live in strong love, they demonstrate to their children the kind of love that they should strive to find in their own future relationships – in this sense, strong, enduring love is developed throughout multiple generations, as Christians serve as proof that “love endures all things” (79).
Lastly, Pope Francis discusses that “dialogue is essential for experiencing, expressing, and fostering love in marriage and family life” (90). Open communication with one another – even the simplest expressions such as “‘please,’ ‘thank you,’ and ‘Sorry’” – protect and nurture the love that the family is founded upon (88). In honest and unfiltered conversation, family members learn from one another, and learn to appreciate each other as individuals essential to making the family what it is. Families form and grow in love, united, through humility, endurance, and communication.
Maria Corr Blog 