“Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.”
1 Corinthians 10:31
“L-o-v-e” is a simple word, but rich and layered in meaning. These four magical letters, written in this precise order, define God’s relationship to us and our relationship to one another. Could anything be more uncomplicated? In the end, it all comes down to love.
My thoughts on Valentine’s Day are probably a lot like yours. Today we celebrate all expressions of God’s love: in our friendships and marriages… through the caring partnerships forged in brotherhood and sisterhood… in religious life… and through the teachings of the Gospel itself.
Thanks to Christ’s example, we understand that the richest experiences of human fulfillment come from loving one another. We saw this lesson expressed time and again over the past year—expressions of caring and love from our frontline healthcare workers that knew no bounds. Maybe you are one of those workers, or perhaps a caregiver who was called to serve in a new or unexpected way.
Friend, when we give ourselves over to someone else—freely and without expectation of any return—those are moments when we grow as disciples of Our Lord. So happy Valentine’s Day. Honor the gift of love with every special remembrance—traditional or otherwise. Then celebrate all year long by being an imitator of Christ.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Father Raymond J. Finch, M.M.
February 14, 2021
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Love incarnate, son of the Most High,
word made flesh and splendor of the Father,
You came to us through the Immaculate
Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary and
revealed God’s love for the world and
to the world by becoming human like us.
Help us to walk in your footsteps
along the way of love
for all our brothers and sisters
for all creatures, large and small
and for the whole Earth,
but above all, for you my God,
who made all things out of love
for us.
Lord, accept the tears and sighs
of those hearts wounded or broken,
hearts hardened or hurt
for love forsaken or betrayed.
You Who loved Your friends till the end
and know the pain of betrayal and abandonment,
fill us anew with Your grace that forgiveness,
mercy, and compassion might flow like a mighty stream
from Your most sacred heart to all of ours.
Amen
Prayer by Maryknoll Missioner, Father Joseph Veneroso
