It is 07th January 2016. The readings are from 1Jn.4:19-5:4 and the Gospel from Lk.4:14-22a. The first reading presents the most powerful statement on love. “Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen.” (1Jn.4:20). Faith and love cannot be separated. Liturgy and life cannot oppose each other. Love is the proof of our faith. Faith exists in a meaningful way where love plays a vital role. The day we begin to experience God in others, our faith has come to fruition. We will remain blindfolded in faith without love. It is indeed a self-deception to have an elaborate prayers and expensive offerings to God while our neighbours go hungry. The responsorial Psalm prays, “All nations shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord.” (Ps.71:11). In the Gospel we read the manifesto of the ministry of Jesus. Before Jesus began His ministry, He was obedient to his parents and willing to go the temple to learn the Scripture on a daily basis. Listening, reading and reflecting the Word of God is the integral part of development in the growth of the child. We the parents need to allow our children to learn the Scripture on a daily basis. Jesus has come into the world to give good news to the poor, release the captives and to proclaim the goodness of the Lord. We are here on earth to do good. We have come to believe and accept Jesus as our model and inspiration in order to do good. Let us begin to do good. Let our actions prove our faith in Jesus. May you have a good day.