SHAPE THE FUTURE
AS GOD WOULD HAVE IT
AS GOD WOULD HAVE IT
In the Scripture readings for this Sunday we read about
sacrifices and the scribes. If we want to worship the One God, our Father, then
we need to do so with our whole self. If we reverently participate in the Mass,
then we should have the same reverence when it comes to making sacrifices for
others. If we love God, then we ought to express that through the love we show
our community. Having integrity and sincerity will put us "not far from
the Kingdom of God" (Mk 12:34).
An educated man came to Jesus Christ and asked, "Which is
the first of all the commandments?" Jesus did not hesitate in responding
with love. Jesus spelled out in great detail what He meant when He said to love
God with your whole self and your neighbor as yourself. This love is expressed
through our care for the stranger, widow, orphan, and the poor. Others can see
our love for God as we heal those who are hurting, as we feed the hungry, and
give clothes to the naked. Let us not allow anger and hatred to take over -
forgive and befriend.
What makes our love for God grow? Faith in God and hope in His
promises are what strengthen us. They are essential for a good relationship
with our heavenly Father and we become more closely united to Him. The more we
know God the more we love Him and greater will our belief and hope in His
promises. Over all, we will have healthy relationships with those around us.
Whenever we are in doubt about any of this, remember what the
Psalmist wrote, "I love you, Lord, my strength" (Ps 18:2). It's a
process of praying, listening, loving, and choosing. It's about living life and
shaping our future as God would have it.