22 The primary verb of v. 8 is a participle (“having”) but it continues the sense of command from v. 7.
23 Or “constant.”
24 The statement of v. 8b, love covers a multitude of sins, is proverbial: It is quoted from Prov 10:12 (cf. Jas 5:20). It speaks of the forbearance that comes with love: Christian love is patient and forgiving toward the offenses of a fellow Christian (Matt 18:21–22; 1 Cor 13:4–7).

In other versions

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.

Above all, maintain constant love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins.

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins.

Above all, keep your love for one another constant, because love covers a large number of sins.

And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

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