June 15, 2026
— Joachim Bouvet · Source: Letters from Joachim Bouvet to Leibniz
1 Corinthians 13:1-2 If I speak in the tongues of men and 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.
This passage is like a clear mirror, pointing directly to our hearts. We often pursue gifts, knowledge, and worldly achievements, even yearning for the power to "move mountains" in our ministry. But Paul reminds us that without love, even the greatest achievements are merely jarring noise, "meaning nothing" in eternity. Joachim Bouvet also said that empty words of reverence for God without the substance of love for others make faith a tree without roots. Reflecting on the present, are my words, actions, and plans driven by self-justification or by divine love?
Lord Jesus, forgive me for my often eloquent words, yet lack of patience and kindness. I do not ask for illustrious gifts or applause, but only that you once again pour your selfless love into my heart. Only by connecting with you, the source of all waters, will my service and life not wither. Expand my heart, so that the work of my hands and the words of my mouth may no longer be for self-aggrandizement, but rather as channels of your love, blessing and warming everyone around me. Amen.