One of the many charming stories about lovable St. John XXIII tells of the time he was discussing some of the basic truths of our faith with some leaders in the Church. Among other things he asked: “What do you think is the purpose of life?” Several gave answers in line with the usual and correct one, namely: ‘The purpose of life is to know, love and serve God in this life so that we can be happy with Him forever in heaven. St. John smiled be shook his head. Finally, he gave the answer he was looking for: “You are right as far as you go – the purpose of life is to know, love and serve God, but that is not enough. We must help others to know, love and serve God. ”As with so many other teachings and practices of our Catholic faith, St. John had given a basic truth of our religion another dimension, another important angle, an angle which we can apply to what Jesus tells us today, namely, that the big proof of our love for God is keeping God’s commandments. We do this, not as servants but as friends, not in slavish fear but in true affection for the Father. Then Jesus adds: “This I command you, to love one another.”
One way to love our neighbor is to help that neighbor to love God. How can we help others love God, that is, to please God? By helping them, keep the commandments which tell us what pleases God and what displeases Him. Every time we explain the laws of God to another we are helping that person know what pleases God. Keeping those laws yourself is even better instruction. Parents are the first and best teachers of what God wants. They prove their love for their children by helping their boys and girls know what is right and wrong. This should be the motive, the reason for all teaching of the commandments. Sharing your catholic books, pamphlets and your catechism with a non-Christian or non-Catholic can be a beginning for that person to love God.
Let me mention, by way of example, some specific ways to help others love God. Here is a woman with unwanted pregnancy. She is tempted to murder her baby. Help her, through birthright or any other way, to keep her baby and you are helping her to please God. By coming here to worship God regularly, you are encouraging other Catholics and non-Catholics, to keep the Lord’s Day. By respecting the name of God you help others respect the good names of other people. Ask God then, in and through this Holy Sacrifice of the Mass to help you yourself to know, love and serve Him, and to help you to help others to know, love and serve Him. God love you.
#41. THE MEANING OF LOVE: A young monk approached Abba Nisteros and inquired. “Father, tell me the meaning of Love?” Quietly, the old monk picked a dry leaf and crushed it in his palm. Then, he took a fallen twig and broke it. Lastly, he culled a pebble and threw it as far as he could. “Child, the three things I just did,”Abba Nisteros answered, “sums up the meaning of Love.” For love is meant to be free, you cannot change its nature. If there are people you love, allow them to be free beings.”
During this week we have optional memorial of Saints. There is no special feast to celebrate. This is all for now, watch for the next bulletin.
Your Priest-Servant and Parochial Administrator,
Fr. Reggie