Giving From the Heart

Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time
November 10, 2024 — Year B
Readings: 1 Kgs 17:10-16 / Ps 146 / Heb 9:24-28 / Mk 12:38-44
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Our readings today call every one of us to think about and reflect on genuine generosity, trust, and humility.  The Church shows us that authentic giving is not a matter of abundance and high status, but a heart surrendered to God.  The poor widow in the first reading, the teachings from the letter to the Hebrews, and the praise of Jesus towards the widow’s action in the gospel, encourage us to ask ourselves about the meaning of true and genuine giving from the heart.

In today’s first reading, we have the story of the widow from Zarephath, a woman who humanly speaking, literally has almost nothing in this world.  Then she receives a visit from the prophet Elijah.  She is in the process of gathering her last bit of food to eat with her son, when Elijah approaches her and asks for some food.  This becomes a response of faith and obedience on her part, whereby God proceeds to bless her with an inexhaustible fountain of flour and oil.  She shows trust.  This act of kindness surely will bring even greater blessings, and so it does.

Most of the time we find ourselves in the same situation as the widow of Zarephath.  We often think that we only have enough for ourselves.  This could be true in our human world, as most of our priorities revolve around jobs, seeking wealth, entertainment, or leisure activities.  Elijah shows us a different picture.  The first thing in our lives must be faithfulness to God.  We might say, “No.  I must be busy with other things like feeding my family, educating my children, and allowing time for pleasurable activities.”  Elijah might agree with us but would probably begin the conversation by saying that those activities are fine and should be part of our lives, but first we should make our God “a little cake” and bring it to Him.

Paul’s letter to the Hebrews reminds us of the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, who gave not only from His earthly life, but also from His very being.  Christ’s offering was perfect and complete in that He did not stop at public display of duty but showed selflessness rooted in love.  This text points to the deepest part of generosity wherein heart and soul are fully committed toward service to others.

Finally, in the gospel, Jesus contrasts the conduct of the scribes with that of the poor widow who, without any show, drops two copper coins in the temple treasury.  The rich are giving out of their plenty, but this woman gives all she has for her livelihood.  Jesus sees her act as a profound witness of faith and love, not because of the amount she gives, but because of the heart with which it is given.  The poor widow received the praise of Jesus because she put in her last money, though she was poor.  As Jesus said, she gave all she had to live on.  The message of Jesus is very clear.  Every person is capable of sharing, no matter how poor or needy he or she is.

Some people give because they want something in return.  Jesus tells us today that genuine giving must be sincere.  It must come from the heart.  If we expect something in return, it is no longer considered giving, but rather a transaction.  If we think of helping a person now, while in the future expect that person to return the favor, it is not helping or giving, but rather a debt.  The real value of giving is not measured by the amount given.  If this is the case, then everyone can afford to do this.  But real giving is the generous giving of oneself, a sort of sacrifice on the part of the giver.

The readings today share a common message of sacrificial giving and trust in God.  It is a trust by which our authenticity leads to generosity.  We give, not from our surplus, but from the sincerity of our hearts.  In fact, Saint Ignatius of Loyola once said that love is shown more in deeds than in words.  Deeply inherent in today’s readings, each character shows faith and love in their actions, not merely with words.

Sacrificial giving generally runs counter to the culture of material wealth, social status, and appearance in this world.  The accumulation and guarding of resources are usually rewarded by society, while true acts of love and trust are mostly ignored.  This gospel reminds us, however, that God sees and values those acts of the heart.  The widow’s offering, indeed, had a small monetary value but was great in its spiritual value.

We are called beyond surface level generosity into the understanding of what it means to give in a way honoring God.  In financial resources, time, or love, each one of us has something we can give, even if it feels small or insignificant.  As we look at these examples of trust and selflessness, our own lives have to be considered.  Is our giving sacrificial, or do we simply give when it’s convenient?  Do we give only when it is easy, or are we willing to give when it requires faith?

Such trust and sacrificial giving are exemplified in the life of Saint Teresa of Calcutta, who is known for her service to the poorest of the poor.  Perhaps the following story about her is most fitting in reflecting on today’s gospel message. The story goes that one day, a woman came to her with a small bundle of rice, her only food for the day, and offered it to help the needy.  Mother Teresa was deeply moved, seeing in this woman’s gift the same spirit as the gospel’s widow: to give, not from her abundance, but from her very sustenance.  As Mother Teresa once said, it is not how much we give that is important, but how much love we put into giving.  Like the widow in today’s gospel, so too, this woman’s offering in material terms was trifling, but was great in faith and love.  Mother Teresa knew that it was in such little offerings of self that God’s love is most deeply revealed.  She often exhorted her sisters to give until it hurts, not because pain is the end, but because true giving often requires a willingness to go beyond what is comfortable or convenient.

As we continue to reflect today, we are called to consider our own generosity.  Are we like the wealthy in the gospel who give only what doesn’t disrupt their comfort?  Or is there courage deep within us to give in ways that require trust in God’s provision for us?  Today’s message is not only about money, but about all kinds of giving:  the giving of our time, attention, and kindness.  In this busy world, sometimes the best thing we can give is the gift of our presence.  Like the insignificant two coins of the widow, time spent comforting a friend or helping a stranger may be unimportant, but for God these are priceless.

Let us pray that we may obtain a heart similar to that of the widow, to trust, to give liberally no matter how humble our offerings may seem.  Let this example teach us that acts of love serve to display God to the world.  May the teaching of Saint Ignatius be remembered, to manifest our love by deeds rather than words.

Live What You Believe

Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time
November 3, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Dt 6:2-6 / Ps 18 / Heb 7:23-28 / Mk 12:28b-34
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Brothers and sisters, our readings today show us a common theme of wholehearted love for God and neighbor. They highlight that true faith is rooted in all-encompassing love. True faith directs both our devotion to God and our relationship with our neighbors.

In the first reading, from Deuteronomy, Moses reminds the Israelites to love God completely. This love isn’t a mere feeling. It is a command to orient our lives toward God. This teaching underlines that our love for God isn’t just an aspect of our life. It is our life. When Jesus calls us to love with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, He is calling us to a love that pervades every part of our being, guiding our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others.

Moses calls Israel to love God “with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” This love is a foundational command, intended to guide the entire life of the people. It is not a selective or partial love. It is a love that integrates all aspects of one’s life, reminding us that our relationship with God demands every part of who we are.

In the second reading, from the letter to the Hebrews, we see Jesus as the perfect high priest. Unlike the priests of old, who are limited by sin and death, Jesus’ priesthood is eternal. He mediates for us not with offerings of animals but with His own life, showing us the ultimate example of love. In this sacrificial love, we glimpse the fullness of what it means to love God with all we have. Through Christ, we are given not only the command to love, but also the means to love, drawing from His example and grace.

This passage builds on this theme, showing Jesus as eternal high priest, who embodies the perfect love for God and humanity. Through His sacrifice, Jesus displays love in its fullest form, bridging the gap between God and humanity. His example demonstrates that love is willing to sacrifice for the beloved, underscoring the depth and constancy of divine love.

In the gospel, Jesus is approached by a scribe who asked, “Which commandment is the first of all?”  Jesus responds by quoting the Shema of Deuteronomy: “Hear, O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is one. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” He then adds, “The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Here, Jesus weaves together love for God and love for neighbor, teaching us that the heart of our faith is love.

Most of us create or interpret laws in a complicated and sometimes funny way. Some of these laws are as follows:

• In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, it is against the law to sleep in a refrigerator.
• In Gary, Indiana, you’re breaking the law if you attend a theater within four hours of eating garlic.
• In Pocatello, Idaho, it is illegal to look unhappy.
• If you snore loud enough to disturb your neighbors, you can spend a night or two in jail in North
• It is illegal for chickens to cross the road in Whitman, Georgia.
• Lastly, it is against the law in Alabama to wear a false mustache to church such that it makes people laugh.

Some of these laws likely originated as humorous exaggerations or myths that have since been debunked or repealed, while others were real but are now outdated or barely enforced.

In our gospel, Jesus simplifies and unites the Ten Commandments by declaring the two greatest commandments: to love God fully and to love one’s neighbor as oneself. Jesus highlights that authentic love for God naturally extends to others. Thus, the theme of wholehearted love is complete when it flows outward, encompassing not just our relationship with God but also our commitment to caring for others.

Reflecting on these words, we find a timeless call to deepen our love for God and for others. Bishop Fulton Sheen once said, “If you do not live what you believe, you will end up believing what you live.” This statement captures the heart of our readings today. When we live in a way that truly reflects love for God and neighbor, our faith becomes not just something we believe but something we live. It transforms us and those around us.

Jesus’ words in the gospel offer us a practical and profound way to live out this command: to love God with our whole being is to bring every aspect of our life in harmony to His will. This means that our thoughts, our words, our actions, and even our ambitions are all shaped by our desire to serve God. And the second commandment, to love our neighbor as ourselves, flows naturally from the first. We cannot claim to love God if we are indifferent to the needs of others.

Brothers and sisters, our readings call us today to begin each day by asking God to open our heart to His love. Before we can love others, we must receive love from God. Take time to pray. Read the scriptures in order for us to encounter God’s love, allowing it to shape your heart and actions. Let our love for Him flow into every aspect of our lives: relationships, work, and even leisure. As Bishop Sheen implied, when we let faith influence our actions, we are actively living what we believe.

In every encounter, let us remind ourselves that each person we meet bears God’s image. This may be especially challenging with difficult relationships, but Jesus calls us to a love that goes beyond convenience and comfort. Look for ways to serve. Listen and care for others as you would want others to care for you.

Let us also integrate love into our actions. Love is more than words. It is shown in what we do. This can be as simple as offering a kind word or lending a helping hand. It can also mean dedicating time to those in need; offering compassion to the suffering; listening to the lonely; or praying for those who are struggling.

The scribe’s response in today’s gospel reminds us that understanding God’s commandments is only part of the journey. Living them is the goal. Jesus commends him, saying, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” For us, too, the kingdom is close whenever we choose to love, whenever we respond with a yes to God’s call, both in our devotion to Him and in our care for our neighbors.

Our readings this Sunday remind us that love is the essence of faith. A love that involves the entirety of one’s heart, mind, and actions, transforming our relationship with God and the way we treat others. As we go forth, may we not only believe in the love of God but live it fully, becoming living witnesses to the greatest commandments, and in doing so, draw closer to God and His kingdom.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Small Things With Great Love

Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 20, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Is 53:10-11 / Ps 33 / Heb 4:14-16 / Mk 10:35-45 
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

The readings for this Sunday, the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time, show us a common theme of sacrificial service and humility as the path to true greatness.  The readings together point to the idea that true greatness and leadership in God’s eyes are marked by humility, compassion, and willingness to sacrifice for the good of others.  The past few Sundays’ gospel readings from Mark and our reflections have gradually developed a consistent theme:  discipleship, humility, and the course of following Jesus.

When you watch a TV series, before the start of the show, you will see a brief recap of the previous episodes.  So, allow me to give you a brief recap of the recent Sundays, and how they connect to this Sunday.

On the 27^th Sunday, Jesus spoke about the sanctity of marriage and welcomed children, emphasizing the need for humility and dependence on God, like a child.  The readings highlighted humility, particularly in terms of recognizing our need for God and others, the openness and trust seen in children, and the servant-hearted attitude that Jesus speaks about this Sunday.

On the 28^th Sunday, Jesus encounters the rich young man and teaches about the challenges of wealth in following Him, saying, “Go.  Sell what you have and give to the poor.”  The focus is on detachment and radical discipleship, putting God first above all possessions.  The theme of detachment continues, as Jesus calls His disciples to detach themselves from the culture of royalty and fame.

Today, the theme culminates in Jesus’ teaching on servant leadership.  The disciples, particularly James and John, are still thinking in terms of worldly power and honor.  Jesus redirects them to understand that His mission and kingdom are based on humility and self-giving love.

Over the past few weeks, Jesus has been preparing His disciples to embrace a life of humility and service, warning them against attachments to wealth, status, or power.  Today’s teaching makes this call really clear and definite.  True greatness in the kingdom is found in becoming a servant, even to the point of sacrifice.

In today’s gospel, we witness an audacious request from the apostles, James and John.  They ask Jesus for positions of honor in His glory.  They want to be seated at His right and left, envisioning power and prominence in a kingdom they imagine Jesus will soon come to reign.  The request shows their misunderstanding of what Jesus is about to accomplish.  They are still thinking in worldly terms of greatness and power, while Jesus is about to demonstrate that His kingdom operates on an entirely different foundation:  self-sacrifice and service.

Jesus responds to the request with a profound lesson: “Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant.  Whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all.”  (Mark 10: 43-44) This teaching flips our understanding of greatness upside down.  Instead of power and control, Jesus tells us that true greatness is found in humility and in serving others.

This message is reinforced by our first reading, from the prophet Isaiah, which speaks of the suffering servant, who, through his suffering and offering his life, brings healing and salvation to many.  “By suffering, My servant shall justify many.”  (Isaiah 53:11) Jesus embodies this prophecy. He is the suffering servant who gives his life as a ransom for many, showing us that love reaches its fullest expression in sacrifice.

Our second reading reminds us of the compassionate nature of Jesus as our high priest.  “We do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way.”  (Hebrews 4:15) Jesus is not distant or aloof from our human condition.  He knows our struggles and our sufferings because He has experienced them Himself.  He knows the cost of service and the pain of sacrifice.

I’d like to quote what Mother Teresa said, which perfectly captures this spirit of humble service and love.  “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.”

In our lives, we may not be called to the kind of great sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross, but we are called to serve in small ways with love and humility.  It is in these small acts of kindness:  listening to someone in pain, comforting a friend, caring for the needy, that we participate in Christ’s mission of love.

The apostles wanted greatness, but Jesus shows them that greatness is not about status or recognition.  It is about serving others without counting the cost.  This call to service is not limited to extraordinary moments or grand gestures; it is lived out in the everyday moments of our lives, when we choose to put others before ourselves, when we act with compassion, and when we seek to love as Christ has loved us.

So, the question for us today is:  How can we live out this call to service in our own lives?  First, we must remember that Jesus calls us to humility.  This means recognizing that we are not above anyone, whether it is your family, friends, or strangers.  We are called to serve them, as Jesus serves.  We can begin by asking ourselves:  How can I serve the people around me?  What small acts of kindness can I offer today?

Second, we can imitate Jesus in His compassion.  As the letter to the Hebrews tells us, Jesus sympathizes with our weaknesses, because He understands them.  In our interactions with others, we should strive to be compassionate and understanding, recognizing that everyone is carrying their own burdens.  Compassion begins by listening and by being present to those who are suffering or in need.

Lastly, let us humbly embrace the opportunities to sacrifice.  Sacrifice doesn’t always mean giving up something big.  It often means putting aside our own desires for the sake of others.  It means being patient when it is difficult, forgiving when it’s painful, and loving when it’s inconvenient.  In a world that celebrates individualism and self-promotion, Jesus invites us to embrace a different kind of greatness, one that is grounded in love, service, and humility.  As we go forth today, may we take to heart His words: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”  (Mark 10:45) Let us live this call in our lives, doing small things with great love, knowing that in God’s eyes, they are truly great things.

Change the World by Being the Servant of All

Twenty-fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 22, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Wis 2:12, 17-20 / Ps 54 / Jas 3:16-4:3 / Mk 9:30-37
by Rev. Mr. Mark De La Hunt, Permanent Deacon

If you want to see a total mental meltdown, tell a toddler, “No.”  YouTube is full of entertaining toddler tantrums. Where do they learn that behavior? Parents do not train them to do that. Truth is, we are all born that way. King David, in Psalm 51, wrote, “I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.” (Ps 51:5) You could say he is speaking of original sin. And no, I know toddlers cannot sin, for they are not at the age of reason. This is just an analogy. However, for those who are not baptized and not raised to know and love God and neighbor, the toddler tantrum syndrome continues into adulthood.

In the first reading, you see what I am talking about. “The wicked say: Let us beset the just one, because he is obnoxious to us; he sets himself against our doings.” (Wis 2:12) Adults do not like being told “no” any more than a toddler does. How many have left the Catholic Church because she binds and loosens in accordance with Jesus’ commands and with His authority? Many have left the Church because she says no to any marriage that is not between one man and one woman. Many others have left because of the Church saying no to divorce, to contraception and abortion, or even to capital punishment. To those people, the Catholic Church and her faithful children are “obnoxious.”

Just like those people in the first reading, those who view the Church as obnoxious, want to put us to the test. The LA Dodgers organization and Paris Olympic committee put us to the test, using cross-dressing men to belittle our consecrated religious sisters, the apostles, and Jesus, the Son of God, who died that they may be saved and that the poor may be given the good news. How can you not love Jesus?!

Today’s psalm shows us how to respond, “…haughty men have risen up against [us]…they set not God before their eyes. Behold, God is my helper…Freely will I offer You sacrifice; I will praise your name, O Lord, for its goodness.” (Ps 54:3,6) This is the Mass! We keep going to Mass to offer up the perfect sacrifice in a sacrament of thanksgiving, lifting our voices in praise by singing with the choir. The Mass inoculates us against the madness outside these walls.  It heals our minds and hearts and helps us reset, emptying ourselves of resentment and anger towards “those who test us,” so that our Lord can fill us with His compassion and love.

In the second reading, the apostle James describes people behaving badly and helps us understand why. He writes, “Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every foul practice.” (Jas 3:16) He asks: “Where do wars and where do the conflicts among you come from? Is it not from your passions that make war within your members?” (Jas 4:1) Then he tells them what they do not want to hear. “You ask [God] for [things] but do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.” (Jas 4:3) No doubt, James’s words are obnoxious to many, maybe even to us in our low moments.

This brings us to the gospel, where Jesus, as always, shows us the way out of our mess. He coyly asks a question that He already knows the answer to. “What were you arguing about on the way?” (Mk 9:33) The apostles remain silent, and it is not hard to imagine them staring at their feet, too embarrassed to tell the Lord that they had been talking about who was the greatest.  Their egos are an example of one of the passions James said are at war inside our hearts and minds.

This is something to stop and ponder! If we, who like the Twelve, walk with Jesus in our life, still fall to our passions on occasion, then surely those who do not walk with Jesus are absolutely enslaved by theirs. If you cannot say no to your passions, then you are bound and must obey a cruel master.

Jesus sits down (the typical posture of a teacher back then), calls the Twelve to Him, and says to them, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” (Mk 9:35 / Healy 185) To drive home the point, He puts His arms around a child.

The meaning of this action is better understood if we understand the original language and historical context. In Aramaic and Greek, the word for child can also mean servant. Children back then were “nonpersons who had no legal rights.” (Healy 186) Jesus was doing more than showing affection for the child. Dr. Mary Healy, a leading Catholic biblical scholar said, “He was teaching His disciples to have a whole new esteem for and responsibility toward those who seem the most helpless and inconsequential.” (Healy 186)

Regarding this lowly child, Jesus says, “Whoever receives one child such as this in My name, receives Me.” (Mk 9:37) Mary Healy opens up the astounding meaning of Jesus’ words. She wrote, “To receive a little one is to accept, lovingly serve, and care for those who most need it and cannot repay it. To receive “in Jesus’ name” is to welcome such a person for the sake of Jesus…This implies that Jesus identifies with those who are most insignificant in the eyes of the world – so much so that He Himself is mysteriously present wherever they are welcomed.”  (Healy 186) Our active love for those in need, in response to Jesus’ grace, neutralizes those destructive passions James warns us about, both our personal passions and the passions that are out of control in some of those we serve.

So how do we engage those who see us as obnoxious, because we love and follow Jesus? Here are three steps that flow from today’s readings. And they are in proper order.

• Displace your own passions with Jesus’ grace, by going to Him in Confession and the Eucharist regularly.

• At peace in Jesus’ grace, “accept, lovingly serve, and care for those who most need it and cannot repay it.” This begins at home with our spouse and children. If you think, “Wait a minute, my spouse can repay me.” True, but not when they are holding a grudge, or are overwhelmed by emotion, or are very sick.

• Regular Confession, Eucharist, and care for our families cycles up Jesus’ grace within us, which enables us to then care for those outside the walls of our church and homes.

How do these three steps bring those who see us as obnoxious into the family of God?  Those three steps, brothers and sisters, are how the Catholic Church flourished under the persecution of pagan Rome and eventually displaced paganism with Christianity. Those pagans thought Christians were obnoxious because their very way of living made pagans feel guilty. Nevertheless, they were in time brought into the Church family by the Good News of the Gospel.

The good news is love, and love conquerors all, even death. This is the “wisdom from above” that James spoke of. He said this wisdom is “first of all pure.” (Jas 3:17).” What is pure and from above? Love is pure and from above; thus, Matthew wrote, “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God,” who is above. (Mt 5: 8)

Here is a closing analogy to sum this up. When, in purity of heart, a parent gives a toddler what it is often crying for, their loving attention, they fill its emotional fuel tank, and the toddler becomes peaceful (Dr. Campbell). So too, when we lovingly care for those in society who are most in need, it is seen by those testing us with toddler-like tantrums. And they are attracted to this pure love, for in it, they see what they truly seek in their fruitless, angry, and exhausting pursuit of their passions. They see the peaceful presence of Jesus, who is Love.

Remember these things when Father gives us the final blessing, and I tell you to, “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.” Amen.

CITATIONS

1. Ross Campbell. How to Really Love Your Child. David C Cook, April 1, 2015.
2. Mary Healy STD. Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture, The Gospel of Mark. Baker Academic 2008.

Embrace the Cross

Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
September 15, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Is 50:5-9a / Ps 116 / Jas 2:14-18 / Mk 8:27-35
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

This Sunday’s readings show us how to live our faith, regardless of how the world is treating us.  The readings then reveal to us how to put our faith into action and how our faith can give us the strength to carry the cross in our lives, not to suffer, but to be a symbol of love.

In the first reading, from the prophet Isaiah, we hear the suffering servant.  He speaks about his suffering and persecution but remains obedient to the Lord.  He relies on God’s assistance while others attack him and hurl abuse at him.  This passage refers to Christ as the eventual suffering servant, yet this passage also teaches us a lesson.  The example of Isaiah shows us in our lives today, as we are exposed to situations when we are limited in our opportunities, misjudged, or even persecuted for our beliefs, like the suffering servant, that we should have faith in God and remain committed to Him even in times of suffering.

Most of us have heard the poem, or listened to the song version, Footprints in the Sand.  But allow me to read it to you today.

Footprints in the Sand.

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.

Scenes from my life flashed across the sky.

In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.

Sometimes there were two sets of footprints; other times there was only one.

During the low periods of my life,
I could see only one set of footprints.

So, I said to the Lord,

“You promised me, Lord,
that You would walk with me always.

Why, when I have needed you most, have you not been there for me?”

The Lord replied, “The times when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child,
are when I carried you.”

It may seem that in our difficult times, we only see our footsteps, as if we are walking alone, and no one is helping us.  But in fact, it isn’t even our footsteps, but the Lord’s.  He’s been carrying us all along.  Whenever we go through some challenges in our lives, we can be assured that Jesus has gone through this path before us.  And that He still walks with us today.

The second reading, from James, highlights that faith without works is pointless.  James also teaches us that faith without works is dead, which means that we need to engage the world with our faith.  Even if we claim that we have faith, it is useless if we do not feed the hungry.  He gives us the illustration of a brother or sister who is hungry or poorly clothed, and, instead of feeding them or dressing them, one will just say to them, “Go in peace, and keep warm and well fed.”

Today there is so much suffering:  poverty, loneliness, lack of faith, and we cannot remain passive.  Jesus is asking us to be His arms and legs; to extend a hand and help our fellow brothers and sisters.  Thus, taking up our cross means living out the faith that can be seen to be real and active as it is expressed in love for the neighbor.

In today’s gospel, Jesus asks his disciples a pivotal question.  The question, “Who do you say that I am?” is the very question of our Christian faith.  Indeed, it is not a matter that just Peter and the disciples have to answer.  It is a question Jesus poses to each one of us.  The question, Who do you say that I am? determines how we live, what we do, and most importantly, how we relate to God.

Peter confidently replies, “You are the Christ.”  But when Jesus tells the disciples that being the Christ involves suffering, rejection, and death, Peter rebukes Him.  Everyone seems to have their own image of the Messiah.  It is not what they expected.  Jesus’ response struck Peter with these stern words: “Get behind me, Satan.  For you are not thinking as God does, but as human beings do.”  This is the message that Jesus wants to convey to His disciples, as well as to all of us who follow Him.

The cross:  It means self-sacrifice; picking up one’s cross and following Him.  The cross is closely connected to our identity as Christians.  It is not just a tool of pain and agony, but also a sign of love, sacrifice, and triumph.  Jesus was not forced to bear the cross, but He chose to do so because of our salvation, and to adopt us as God’s sons and daughters.  But equally as important is the call to take up our own cross by Jesus.

We can ask ourselves: “What does it mean for me to bear my cross today?”  The cross can come in different shapes and sizes in our daily lives.  It could be a challenging friendship, a disease, a family’s financial problem, or the things that one has to give up for the family.  It is, for example, defending what we believe in or helping others when it is not very comfortable to do so.  In whatever form we find ourselves, the cross calls for faith and the assurance that Christ is with us.

According to St. Thomas Aquinas, to love is to will the good of the other.  Taking up our cross means living this truth; choosing to love in the face of need, choosing the good of others over our own comfort, and trusting in God’s providence.

Today our Church compels us to be people of faith and to live it in concrete ways.  Let us ask ourselves the question that Jesus asked:  Who do you say that I am?  Do we really acknowledge Him as the Christ, the one who came to suffer, die, and rise for us?  If we do, then we’re being asked to follow Him and to carry our own crosses.  It may include forgiving, when one feels that forgiving others is difficult; serving others and defending the truth, even if it comes at a personal loss.  It means bringing the spirit of the Lord into every decision and action we take in our lives in order to become witnesses of the love of Christ.

In the world that we live in today, it is very tempting to think like Peter in our gospel, who wants an easy and comfortable life with Christ but without the price of the cross.  But Jesus wants more from us.  He calls us to deny ourselves, to embrace the cross, and to find true life in Him.

As we continue our Mass today, let us reflect on how we can live out our faith more fully.  How can we take up our crosses with greater love and trust?  How can we put our faith into action, by serving those around us?  May the grace of the Eucharist strengthen us to follow Christ more closely, to love as He loves, and to carry our crosses with courage and hope.

The Lord Has Done Great Things for Me

Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
August 15, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Rv 11:19A; 12:1-6A, 10AB / Ps 45 / 1 Cor 15:20-27 / Lk 1:39-56
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary into heaven.  The Church teaches us that Mary is assumed into heaven, body and soul.  Because of this doctrine, or dogma, many of our brothers and sisters say, “Oh, that’s just made up by the Church leaders.”  But let us realize that this is a product of deep prayer and reflection.

Sometimes they will tell us, “You Catholics equate Mary to God.”  “You treat her like God.”  Or, “You exalt Mary too much.”

Let us not forget what St. Maximilian Kolbe advised us.  He said, “Do not be afraid to love Mary too much, because you can never love her more than Jesus did.”  In fact, it is not us, nor the Church leaders, who exalted Mary too much first.  It is the scripture.  While not in our gospel today, there is a passage in the same book and chapter:  Luke 1:28.  The angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and said, “Hail Mary – rejoice Mary — you are full of grace.”  Mary, as the new Eve, is full of grace, not sin.  That was the angel who said that, and not any Church leaders.   The scripture, recorded scripture, stated that Mary, as the new Eve, is full of grace.

Because of Eve’s disobedience to God’s will, sin and death entered the world.  But when Mary obeyed God’s will, heaven became wide open again.  That’s the difference between the new Eve and the old Eve. When Mary came, it opened heaven again.  When Mary came, it was not sin and death that entered the world, but rather salvation and eternal life that become our destination while we are here on earth.

That’s why, from the very beginning, even in our first reading for today, in the Book of Revelation, it says, “God’s temple in heaven was open and the ark of His covenant could be seen in the temple.”  The ark of the covenant that was mentioned here is Mary herself.  Mary is the ark, and Jesus is the new covenant.  That covenant is based on that ark.  God put His son, Jesus, in her womb.  That’s why when we pray the litany, “the ark of the covenant” refers to Mary.

That’s why from the very beginning of the conception of Mary, the Immaculate Conception, she was already preserved from the contagion of original sin.  Mary was sinless.  That’s why Mary never experienced death.  What is the effect of sin?  Death.  That’s why Mary never experienced death.  And this is the feast that we celebrate today:  Mary’s Assumption into heaven, body and soul.

But what can we learn from our gospel today, as we celebrate feast of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven?  There were two important things of which Mary showed us great examples.

First, Mary was a person who was willing to look after the needs of others.  When Mary heard that she would conceive Jesus, and she learned that Elizabeth was also pregnant, do you know what Mary did?  She went in haste to Judah.  That was a long and difficult journey, because she traveled almost one hundred miles.  Nobody told Mary to go to Elizabeth.  The angel didn’t say, “Go to visit your cousin, Elizabeth, because she needs your help.”  Mary was one of those people who not only knows how to help, but is able to anticipate the needs of others.  That’s the lesson that we can learn from the Blessed Virgin Mary.

I know that many of us are willing to help others.  The problem is that we may wait until we are asked.  The sad thing is that sometimes we wait until they beg us to help them.  Sadly, sometimes we only offer our help when it is too late:  when a person is dead, or their life is ruined.  That’s when we finally offer help.

The lesson we can learn from our gospel today is that we need to be like Mary, who knows how to anticipate the needs of her brothers and sisters.  We need to be proactive.  We need to always see the needs of others.  That is the essence of “our brother’s keeper.”  If we are our brother’s or our sister’s keeper, then we don’t wait until they ask us to help them.  Go ahead, if you see there is a need; just help others.

That’s the lesson we can learn from Mary.  She doesn’t wait for her cousin to ask her, “Mary, please come and help me.”  She just sees the need and goes in haste to help Elizabeth.

The second thing we can learn from our gospel today is, as Mary showed us, in everything that we receive or achieve in this life, we give praise, glory, and honor to God.  In our gospel, Mary was being praised, and not only in our gospel, but also in the first chapter of St. Luke.  Mary was praised by the angel and by Elizabeth.  The angel praised Mary saying, “Mary, rejoice, for you are full of grace.”

Elizabeth continues, saying, “Blessed are you among women.  Among all the women, you are the most blessed, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.  How does this happen that the mother of my Lord should come to me?  For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the fruit in my womb leaped for joy.  Blessed are you who believed what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”

What was Mary’s response when she heard those words?

Did she say, “I told you that you would praise me”?  I told you that you would treat me as the greatest among all women”?  Is that what Mary said?  No.  Mary remained very humble in her response.  Mary knew from the very beginning that everything that happened in her life was due to the actions of God.  That’s why Mary responded by saying, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.  Not because I am great, but because the Lord has done great things for me.”  That is the Blessed Virgin Mary.  She never exalted herself.  For all the successes that she had, she always gave praise and honor to the Lord.

Many of you may have watched the Olympics.  I don’t watch TV that much, but I did see some clips on social media.  There were ceremonies for those who received gold.  You may admire or idolize many of those contestants.  But sometimes, if you look at them, it’s a sad reality in life.  I don’t admire many of those who seek gold.  Why?  Because during those times in the ceremonies when they are given the chance to speak, yes, they thank those people who have helped them.  They thank their coaches, their trainers, and all the people who supported them.  But very few of them thank God.  Very few of them realize that they didn’t receive those medals without God’s grace and help.  They forget the One who gave them their strength, their skills, their abilities, their intelligence.  It’s all coming from God.  The source of all that is God alone.

It’s sad, because they are given the opportunity; they’re given the platform to speak and to spread the love that the Lord has given them, their faith in God.  That’s their opportunity to spread the Word.  But they don’t do it.

Again, in our gospel today, Mary knew very well that all that she had came from God.  All the glory, all the praises that the angel, and her cousin, and other people gave her, she directed all of them to the Lord.  She knew very well that everything she received in this life was due to God’s actions.  Mary never took any of the blessings she received to herself.  She never accepted anything for her own.  She always gave praise to the Father.

So again, today, we thank the Blessed Virgin Mary, who set us a Christian example.  We ask for her intercession to accompany us on our journey to heaven.  Yes, we have some difficulties and struggles in life.  Let us imitate Mary who always saw and anticipated the needs of others.  Whenever we receive blessings, like Mary, we need to give all the praise and glory to the Father.  In fact, many of the popes have said that the fastest and the easiest, and the surest way to get close to Jesus is through Mary.

The Qualities of Good Shepherds

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
July 21, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Jer 23:1-6 / Ps 23 / Eph 2:13-18 / Mk 6:30-34
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

We find a common theme of leadership, compassion, and unity in our readings today. Each passage presents a different aspect of God’s relationship with His people, highlighting the desire for their care, peace and guidance.

Our first reading gives a stern warning to the shepherds who failed in their duties. The leaders of Israel tasked with guiding and protecting the people have instead led them astray, yet this passage is also filled with hope. God promises to gather His scattered flock and raise up new shepherds who will care for them. This prophecy ultimately points to the coming of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd who will lead His people with justice and righteousness.

Paul speaks of the profound unity brought about by Christ in his letter to the Ephesians. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has reconciled humanity with God and with each other. He has broken down the barriers that once separated Jews and Gentiles, creating one new humanity. This message is especially relevant today as we continue to face divisions within our own communities and the world at large. Those words remind us that true peace and unity can only be found in Christ.

In today’s gospel, we see Jesus welcoming back the apostles, who have been sent out on their mission. They were tired, having worked hard, and Jesus recognizes their need for rest. “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while,” He tells them. However, when they arrive at the deserted place, they find a large crowd waiting.

Despite His own need for rest, and the disciples’ weariness, Jesus is moved with compassion for the crowd. Because they were like sheep without a shepherd, He begins to teach them many things, attending to their spiritual hunger before anything else.

This scene highlights Jesus’ profound compassion and His role as the Good Shepherd, echoing the imagery from Jeremiah, where God promises to raise up a shepherd who will lead with justice and righteousness. Jesus exemplifies this shepherding by putting the needs of the people before His own, demonstrating the sacrificial love and care that characterizes His ministry. The rest and nourishment He offers are not just physical, but deeply spiritual, addressing the core needs of the human heart.

The connection to the second reading from Ephesians is also significant. Paul speaks of Jesus breaking down the dividing wall of hostility and making peace through His sacrifice. This peace is not just the absence of conflict, but a deep abiding presence of God’s love and grace, uniting us with God and with each other. Jesus as the Good Shepherd invites us into this peace, guiding us towards unity and reconciliation.

There was once a small town known for its high school basketball team. The team had an exceptional coach, Coach Thompson, who was deeply committed to his players. He wasn’t just concerned with their performance on the court, but also their well-being off it. He would often stay late to help them with their homework, listen to their personal struggles and offer guidance and support.

One season the team had a particularly grueling schedule. They practiced hard and played intense games almost every week. By mid-season, the players were exhausted. Coach Thompson decided to give them a break. “Let’s take a weekend off,” he said. “Rest, spend time with your families, and recharge.”

However, that weekend Coach Thompson received a call from one of his players, Jake, who was going through a tough time at home. His parents were fighting, and he felt lost and alone. Despite the need for his own rest, Coach Thompson didn’t hesitate. He drove to Jake’s house, took him out for a meal, and spent the day with him, listening and offering words of comfort.

Coach Thompson’s actions resonated deeply with the entire team. They saw how he lived out his commitment to their well-being, even at the expense of his own comfort. This compassion and selflessness not only strengthened their bond, but also inspired them to look out for each other, both on and off the court.

This story mirrors Jesus’ response to the crowd in today’s gospel. Just as Coach Thompson put his players’ needs before his own, Jesus prioritized the spiritual and emotional needs of the people, exemplifying the true Shepherd’s heart. Both coach Thompson and Jesus demonstrate the transformative power of compassion and sacrificial love, reminding us of our call to care for one another in our journeys.

Reflecting on these readings, we are called to examine our own roles as shepherds in our families, communities, and workplaces. How are we guiding those entrusted to our care? Are we living in compassion, justice, and righteousness as Christ exemplified?

In a world often marked with division and hostility, Paul’s message in Ephesians challenges us to be instruments of peace and reconciliation. We must strive to break down the walls that divide us, fostering unity through our common faith in Christ.

Finally, we learn from Jesus’ example in the gospel: Even in times of weariness, He prioritized the needs of others, teaching us the importance of compassion and selflessness. As followers of Christ, we are called to be attentive to the needs around us, offering guidance, support, and love, even when it demands personal sacrifice. May we take these lessons to heart, embodying the qualities of good shepherds in our daily lives and striving for the peace and unity that Christ has won for us.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Rooted in Faith and Love

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
June 16, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Ez 17:22-24 / Ps 92 / 2 Cor 5:6-10 / Mk 4:26-34
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

This Sunday, we celebrate the liturgy with hearts open to the word of God, which reveals the mysteries of faith and the kingdom of heaven. Today’s readings, filled with imagery of growth and cultivation, invite us to reflect on the role of fathers, both earthly and heavenly, in nurturing and guiding the growth of their families and communities.

In the first reading, from Ezekial, God promises to take a tender shoot from the top of a cedar and plant it on a high and lofty mountain.  This tender shoot will grow into a majestic cedar, providing shelter and shade for all creatures.

This image is a powerful reminder of the role of parents as planters and nurturers. Fathers are called to plant seeds of faith, love, and virtue in the hearts of their children, trusting that God will bring these seeds into fruition. Just as the cedar grows strong and tall, so too do the seeds of guidance and example provided by fathers help their children grow in strength and character.

The psalm speaks of the righteous flourishing, like a palm tree and growing like a cedar of Lebanon, planted in the house of the Lord. This flourishing is not just physical, but spiritual and moral.  On Father’s Day we honor the fathers who, through their steadfast love and dedication, have created environments where their children can thrive. Their commitment and sacrifices are akin to the nurturing environment provided by fertile soil, allowing their children to grow deep roots in faith and moral integrity.

Karol Wojtyla Sr., father of the future Pope John Paul II, played a pivotal role in shaping his son’s spiritual life, as detailed in the book, John Paul II: Man of Prayer. Widowed when his son was just nine, Karol, known as “the captain,” was a quiet, upright, retired soldier and former tailor, who took on the roles of cooking, cleaning, and making his son’s clothes. He encouraged his son in his friendships, studies, and sports.

But most importantly, he instilled a deep faith in him. Their modest apartment in Wadowice, Poland was described by John Paul II as a domestic seminary. The elder Wojtyla set an example through his own deep and unselfconscious piety, praying often on his knees and making prayer a constant in their lives.  The two would read the Bible and pray the rosary together.

One significant detail from the book highlights this devotion.  Sometimes, young Karol would wake in the night to find his father kneeling in the dark, praying silently. This profound example of faith and integrity greatly influenced the spiritual formation of the future Pope.

Paul reminds us in the second reading that we walk by faith, not by sight. Fathers often embody this principle in their role as providers and protectors, making countless decisions and sacrifices, motivated by love and faith, even when the outcomes are uncertain. Paul’s message encourages fathers to persevere in their mission, trusting that their efforts, guided by faith, will be pleasing to the Lord.

Finally. in the gospel of Mark, Jesus uses the parables of growing seed and the mustard seed to illustrate the kingdom of God.  These parables highlight the mysterious and gradual growth of the kingdom, often unnoticed, but unstoppable. Fathers can draw inspiration from these parables, understanding that their efforts, even the smallest acts of love and guidance, are like seeds planted in the hearts of their children.  Though the growth may be slow and imperceptible at times, the impact is profound and enduring.

A man was visiting a farmer and saw him planting his field. “What are you sowing?” he asked. “Wheat” was the answer. “And what do you expect to reap from it?” he asked. “Wheat, of course,” said the farmer.

The very same day, some little thing provoked the farmer to go into cursing and swearing.  The visitor asked, “What are you sowing now?” The farmer said, “What? Do you take such serious views of every mood, word, and action?” The visitor replied, “Yes. For every word helps to form a permanent temper. And for every word we must give account, and every act aids to form a habit. And habits are to the soul what the veins and arteries are to the blood, the courses in which it moves and will move forever. By all these little words and actions, we are forming character, and the character will go with us to eternity, and according to it will be our destiny and the destiny of others forever.”

Jesus’ parable emphasizes the natural and gradual process of growth.  The seed grows night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up. This underscores the idea that spiritual growth and the advancement of God’s kingdom are often not immediately visible but occur continuously and inevitably over time.  It reassures believers that God is at work, even when we do not see immediate results. Our role is to plant the seed and trust in God’s timing for the growth and fruition.

The transformation from a tiny seed to a large plant signifies the profound impact the kingdom of God can have on the world and on individuals’ lives. The mustard plant becomes large enough that the birds of the air can perch in its shade.

This highlights the inclusive and expansive nature of God’s kingdom, providing shelter, refuge, and community. It challenges believers to consider how their faith and actions can contribute to creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for others.

The parable encourages us and those who may feel that their efforts are too small to make a difference. It reassures us that God values and can use even the smallest acts of faith and kindness in a world that often celebrates immediate success and grand gestures. This parable invites us to appreciate the humble beginnings and trust in the long-term impact of our faithfulness.

This Sunday, the Church calls us to trust in the power of small beginnings and our role in enhancing the growth of the kingdom of God. It encourages us to nurture our faith; be patient with the process; and contribute to a community where all can find refuge and support. This reflection invites us to embrace the mystery of God’s work in the world and our lives, holding onto the hope that even the small seeds of faith can grow into something magnificent.

Today, brothers and sisters, as we reflect on the readings and celebrate Father’s Day, let us give thanks for the fathers and father figures in our lives.  Let us recognize the vital role they play in nurturing, guiding, and supporting their families.  Their love and dedication reflect God’s love for us: a love that is patient, steadfast, and ever-present.

As we honor our fathers, let us also pray for them, that they may continue to be strong and faithful stewards of their families, and that they may be blessed with wisdom and grace to lead their children towards life rooted in faith and love. May all fathers find joy in their vocation, and may their children grow to be the living testimony to their tireless love and devotion.

May Jesus Christ be praised.

Living the Values of the Eucharist

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
June 2, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Ex 24:3-8 / Ps 116 / Heb 9:11-15 / Mk 14:12-16, 22-26
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi, is a profound celebration in the liturgical calendar that invites us to reflect deeply on the mystery of the Eucharist.  This feast reminds us of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of the Eucharist, a mystery that is central to the Catholic faith.  As we contemplate this Solemnity, several key reflections emerge.

At the heart of Corpus Christi is the belief in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.  This doctrine teaches that in the consecrated elements of bread and wine, Jesus Christ is truly present:  body, blood, soul, and divinity.  This mystery transcends human understanding, inviting us to approach it with faith and reverence.  The Eucharist is not a symbol, but a profound encounter with the living Christ who comes to nourish us and transform us.  The Eucharist is a manifestation of Jesus’ immense love and His ultimate sacrifice for humanity.

At the Last Supper, Jesus instituted the Eucharist as a perpetual memorial of His passion, death, and resurrection.  Each time we celebrate the Eucharist, we are invited to enter into the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice, to remember His love for us and to respond with our own love and gratitude.  The Eucharist is a call to live a life of self-giving love, mirroring the example of Jesus.

The celebration of the Eucharist also underscores the unity of the Church.  In receiving the Body and Blood of Christ, we are united not only with Jesus, but also with one another.  The Eucharist is the sacrament of unity, drawing us together as the body of Christ.  It challenges us to overcome divisions, to live in harmony, and to work for the common good.  In a world often marked by fragmentation and discord, the Eucharist calls us to be instruments of peace and reconciliation.  As we receive Communion, we are united with Christ and with one another.  We become His body, His Church, His presence in the world.  We are called to be broken and poured out for others, just as Jesus was.

The second Vatican Council described the Eucharist as the source and summit of the Christian life.  This means that all other sacraments and works of the Church are oriented towards the Eucharist, and from it they draw their meaning.  The Eucharist is the high point of our spiritual life, where we encounter Christ most intimately.  It nourishes us spiritually, strengthens us in our journey of faith, and sends us forth to live out the Gospel in our daily lives.

As we reflect on the Eucharist, let us ask ourselves, do we receive Communion with reverence and gratitude?  Do we recognize the presence of Christ in those around us?  Do we share our own lives, like the Bread of Life, to nourish others?

There is a story of a young woman who took care of her elderly aunt.  The aunt had inherited a fair amount of money from her deceased brother, but never mentioned it to anyone.  On her deathbed, she summoned her niece and said, “You have been so good to me, I want to reward you.  Take this frayed sweater of mine and wear it until you become rich.”  The niece expressed gratitude but was disappointed.  She felt her aunt could have at least left her a watch or a ring.  She buried the sweater in the bottom drawer of her bureau.  The aunt died.  A year later, the niece put on the sweater while she did some yard work.  She felt something in the sweater pocket.  She found a key wrapped in a note.  In the box unlocked by the key, she found that her aunt had given her legal title to a fortune of three hundred million dollars.

The moral of the story is that we often miss the treasures that are passed on to us, because we do not take time to look.  The application of this story to the feast of the Body and Blood of Christ is the same.  We may miss the treasure of the Eucharist, because we do not take the time to look or reflect on this mystery.

Each year, the Church pauses to meditate on the Eucharist itself.  Though we celebrate the Eucharist each Lord’s Day, on this day we are drawn to ponder events and teachings about Christ.  We may not always pay attention sufficiently to the Sacrament dwelling at the core of our weekly experience.

Finally, the celebration of Corpus Christi is a call to live “Eucharistic-ly.”  This means that our lives should reflect the values of the Eucharist:  gratitude, self-giving, unity, and love.  We are called to be a Eucharistic people, living in constant thanksgiving for the gift of Christ and striving to embody His love in our interactions with others.  Our participation in the Eucharist should inspire us to be more Christ-like, to serve those in need, and to build a more just and compassionate world.

The Solemnity of the Holy Body and Blood of Christ invites us to a deep reflection on the mystery of the Eucharist.  It is a celebration that renews our faith, strengthens our unity, and inspires us to live more fully in the love of Christ.  As we partake in the Eucharist, let us do so with reverence and gratitude, allowing this profound sacrament to transform us and guide us in our Christian journey.

Love Without Condition

Sixth Sunday of Easter
May 5, 2024 — Year B
Readings: Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48 / Ps 98 / 1 Jn 4:7-10 / Jn 15:9-17
by Rev. Nixon Negparanon, Pastor

There is a story told about a devastating famine in Russia that had brought great misery.  A beggar had become weak and emaciated and almost starved to death.  He approached the novelist Leo Tolstoy and asked him for assistance.

Tolstoy searched his pockets for money but discovered that he didn’t even have as much as a single coin.  However, he took the beggar’s worn hand between his own and said, “Don’t be angry with me, my brother.  I have nothing with me.”

The thin, lined face of the beggar lit up as if from some inner light.  The beggar whispered in reply, “But sir, you called me ‘brother.’  That was the greatest gift that you could give me.”

Jesus said in our gospel today, “This is my commandment:  Love one another as I have loved you.”

As we gather on this Sixth Sunday of Easter, the readings invite us into a deeper understanding of love, unity, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  The Easter season is drawing to a close, yet the spirit of renewal and hope remains vibrant within us.  This Sunday offers a moment for reflection on the journey we’ve undertaken since Easter Sunday and the profound teachings shared during this sacred time.

In the reading from the Acts of the Apostles, we witness the radical inclusivity of God’s love, as Peter proclaims to Cornelius and his household that God shows no partiality.  This passage challenges us to expand our understanding of community and embrace the diversity of God’s creation.  It reminds us that the love of God knows no boundaries, and extends to all people regardless of race, ethnicity, or background.

The passage from the First Letter of John reinforces this message of love, emphasizing that love is not merely a human emotion, but the very essence of God’s being.  As beloved children of God, we are called to love one another for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.  This love is not based on merit or worthiness but is freely given to all who open their hearts to receive it.

In the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks to His disciples about the profound nature of love, and the call to abide in His love.  He reminds them that they are not merely servants but friends, chosen and appointed to bear fruit that will last.  This passage challenges us to deepen our relationship with Christ and to live lives rooted in love, compassion, and service to others.

The gospel also brings us into the intimate discourse between Jesus and His disciples, a conversation rich with profound meaning and enduring relevance.  In these verses, Jesus speaks of love, friendship, and the essence of discipleship.

Jesus begins by commanding His disciples to abide in His love, just as He abides in the love of the Father.  This call to abide in love is not passive; it requires an active commitment to remain connected to the source of all love, which is God.  Through this connection, we find our strength, our purpose, and our identity as followers of Christ.

The depth of Jesus’ love for us is revealed in His willingness to lay down His life for our sins, a sacrifice that exemplifies the greatest expression of love.  In this act of selflessness, we see the true nature of love – love that is sacrificial, unconditional, and boundless.

As Jesus continues, He invites His disciples into a deeper relationship with Him, calling them friends, rather than servants.  This shift in language underscores the intimacy of their connection and the trust that exists between them.  It is a relationship built, not on fear or obligation, but on mutual love and respect.

Central to Jesus’ message is the commandment to love one another as He has loved us.  This commandment is not merely a suggestion or a request; it is a mandate that lies at the heart of Christian discipleship.  To love as Jesus loves is to embody the very essence of His teachings, to extend compassion, forgiveness, and grace to all those we encounter.

There was a story about two little boys who were brothers and went to school for enrollment.  The teacher asked these little brothers about their age and birthdays, so she could place them in the registration form.

The older of the two replied, “We’re both seven.  My birthday is April 8 and my brother’s birthday is April 20.”  The teacher replied, “But that’s not possible, boys.”

The quieter brother spoke up.  “No, it’s true.  One of us is adopted.”

“Oh!” said the teacher, “Which one is adopted?”

The two brothers looked at each other and smiled.  The older brother said, “We asked Dad that same question a while ago, but he just looked at us and said he loved us both equally and he couldn’t remember anymore which one of us is adopted.”  What a wonderful analogy of God’s love for us.  It is a love without condition; it does not discriminate.

Finally, Jesus reminds His disciples that they did not choose Him, but He chose them, and appointed them to go and bear fruit that will last.  This commissioning is both a privilege and a responsibility, calling us to live lives that reflect the love and grace we have received.

As we reflect on these words of Jesus, may we be inspired to abide in His love, to embrace our identity as His friends and disciples, and bear fruit that will bring glory to God.

May we strive to love one another with the same selfless love that Jesus has shown us, and may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of God’s love at work in the world.

May Jesus Christ be praised.