Once again today I am focussing on the first phrase of verse 5 in 1 Corinthians 13. I am going to share some thoughts based on another English version.

Love “is not injurious”. That is the rendering of the Jubilee Bible 2000 (JUB) copyrighted by the Life Sentence Publishing Incorporation. This name seems to suggest that the JUB may have been written with the idea to provide a translation understandable for prisoners.

Certainly the word “injurious” is very plain. Still I feel this translation is meaningful to all people and not merely for those who at times have tended to giving in to an inclination towards crime.

The kind of love Paul is writing about would take care not to hurt other people. This may refer to words or deeds.

We may not always be aware of being offensive or hurtful to others. People vary as for physical constitution and psychological makeup.

What some may consider a friendly clap may appear to be a severe punch to others. Some may feel they are being teased by the same words that perhaps would cause others to feel deeply offended.

Some have a good sense of humour. At times they even enjoy laughing about themselves. Good humour can help to go through life more happily and more at ease.

There are people who do not feel insulted easily. Yet still there may be words or actions that are a real challenge even to otherwise serene individuals.

St. Paul here says love would seek to avoid whatever will make others feel hurt. Love would do her best to care about the feelings of family members, friends, colleagues, and even strangers.