Scripture:
1 John 4:19-5:4
Luke 4:14-22a
Reflection:
We are in the Christmas Season until Jan. 11th. The Christmas story tells us that God loved us so much that he gave us his son. The readings invite us to allow God’s Spirit to love through us.
This Gospel reading is proclaimed at many ordinations, including my own. The call to priesthood is an invitation to love. We are anointed to love through our behavior, not just in word. As Passionists we love by preaching, counseling, serving and touching lives.
Love is practical. There are many ways to express love. Christmas celebrates the giving of gifts. Perhaps forgiveness is the greatest gift we can offer. Another way is to spend quality time with someone. Encouraging and affirming someone is a way to love. Acts of service show that you care. Lastly, reaching out and touching someone physically or by phone or email displays love.
Our religion is one that has love as its hallmark. During this Christmas season we celebrate the wondrous love God has for us. Because we are loved so passionately we love God and others gratefully.
Fr. Cedric Pisegna, C.P. is a missionary preacher, author of 12 books and creator of the TV program Live with Passion! airing in many cities. You can learn more about his ministry at: http://www.frcedric.org/