Scripture:
Ephesians 4:32-5:8
Luke 13:10-17
Reflection:
Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love . . . Ephesians 5:1
In today’s Gospel Jesus heals a woman who is unable to stand up straight. The leader of the synagogue, where Jesus healed the woman, is upset about a healing taking place on the Sabbath. This was seen as work and no work was to be done on the Sabbath. The religious leaders of Jesus’ time were focused on the Law. The Law was what told them how they were to live their life. Jesus healed many people of many ailments and physical disabilities and he did this out of compassion and love for humanity. His teachings and parables also challenged the religious leaders to go beyond the Law. Jesus’ law, is the law of Love.
In Saint Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, we are called to imitate God and to live in love by being kind, compassionate and forgiving. The Scripture message today is very poignant for all that has been occurring in our cities, states, country and throughout the world. The message of Saint Paul and Jesus’ Law of Love is needed to refocus us on what is truly important. Kindness, compassion and forgiveness are tools we can use to diminish hatred. The Scriptures call us to be that instrument of the law of Love, to be “imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love”.
How can we be instruments of God’s love to others?
Linda Schork is a theology teacher at Saint Xavier High School in Louisville, Kentucky.