1 John 4:21
This is the commandment we have from him: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.
In today's lexicon, people throw words around because they want to express how they feel but sometimes these words go to the extreme. "Great" is often used to describe many things, where "good" or "very good" should be used. "Love" is used when the word "like" or "care for" should be used. Conversely, "hate" is too often used, when "I disagree," or "dislike" might be more appropriate. When these words apply to people and actions, they can be misinterpreted. (Personally I distain the word hate because it is so extreme.) I find it troubling that some people have a lot of trouble saying "I love you," but have no problem spewing venomous words to people.
Today's first reading from 1st John addresses the word, "love." He says that Jesus loves us, and God loves us. The ultimate sacrifice was made for us out of love, so that we might be saved from ourselves. John goes on to say that the person who says they love God, then a moment later says they hate this person or that person, does not really love God, or does not know what the true meaning of love really encompasses. If everyone were to experience a fraction of God's love, the world would be a better place. We can often experience this in the birth of a child, at a wedding ceremony, an encounter of the Holy Spirit in a retreat, or the simple quiet of a beach or forest. Pray today for the Holy Spirit to enter you to show love to all, not just your spouse or family, but even the stranger.
