THURSDAY, CHRISTMASTIDE
1 Jn 4: 19 — 5: 4 Ps 72: 1-2, 14 -15, 17 Lk 4: 14-22
LOVE CONQUERS ALL
The beautiful hymn, “Love it was that made us”, beautifully conveys the message that, only when we love all people can we truly partake in God’s love. Jesus, in His earthly ministry, exemplified action over words, showing us that love is lived more than it is preached. Today’s first reading presents the double commandment: to love God and to love one another. Christian love is not an abstract concept but is manifested concretely in how we treat others. As children of God, we are called to be identified by our love for one another. Our faith and belief in a loving God compels us to extend that love outward. Created in God’s image and likeness, we are called to reflect His light in a world often overshadowed by darkness, accepting and valuing all people. Icons like St. Teresa of Calcutta, Fr. Stan Swamy, and even contemporary figures like Ratan Tata stand as beacons of love and selfless service.
In today’s Gospel, we hear Jesus’ inaugural address in the synagogue at Nazareth. In our fast-paced, self-centred world, these words challenge us to let God’s message resonate in our hearts and transform us. We are called to be “another Christ,” reaching out to the marginalized and oppressed, standing with those seeking justice. This mission of evangelization is entrusted to all baptized Christians. True discipleship involves active love—loving God, whom we cannot see, by serving those around us, especially the poor and vulnerable. As John F. Kennedy famously said in his inaugural address: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.” Similarly, Christ asks us: What are you willing to do to make a difference? Love is the key—it conquers all. Let us heed this call to live as true disciples, following in the footsteps of Christ, spreading His love, and being instruments of transformation in the world.
Response: All nations on earth shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord.
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