May the Lord kindly bless you with good health and happiness in the Holy Spirit.
It is 07th July 2022.
We reflect on Hosea 11:1-4, 8-9 and Matthew 10:7-15.
“Love ought to manifest itself more by deeds than by words,” teaches St. Ignatius Loyola.
An old man wanted to leave all his money to one of his three sons, but he did not know which one he should give it to. He gave each of them a few coins and told them to buy something that would be able to fill their living room. The first man bought grass, but there was not enough to fill the room. The second bought firewood and stacked them, but it still did not fill the room. The third man bought just two things that filled the room. That is nothing but a candle and a box of matches. After lighting the candle, the light-filled the entire room.
“There is not enough darkness in all the world to put out the light of even one small candle,” says Robert Alden
We are the candles with the flames of faith and love in the Lord to light up the world.
The prophet Hosea brings out the tenderest side of the unconditional love of God who goes after the loving people of Israel even when they have conveniently and repeatedly let go of the loving grip of God. God’s patience in loving us is immeasurable. God never gives up on us, hands over us to the evil, and never ill-treat us. “My heart recoils within me; my compassion grows warm and tender. I will not execute my fierce anger.” (Hos.11:8). To honour God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness, we all need to become missionary disciples. “It is a charity which guides us to our final end. It is the love of God and the love of one’s neighbour which points out the true disciple of Christ.” (Lumen Gentium, 42). We received love and faith without charge or payment and so it is our turn to give it without anything.
Relying on God’s providence without hesitation or second thought is proof of loving and believing in God.
If our faith and love are open and inclusive, we can continue to shine the light and love of Christ around us.
“You received without payment; give without payment.” (Mt.10:8). We all can give life, love, and peace, why then are we breathing out fury, hatred, violence, and lust at times? When are we going to be at the giving end? May God bless each one of us to have the courage to love even when nothing in return.