so we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
If someone who has worldly means
sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion,
how can the love of God remain in him?
Children, let us love not in word or speech
but in deed and truth.
REFLECTION: "If someone who has worldly means sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God remain in him?
I think we all have experienced seeing a person in the street begging for money or food. Their situation is right in front of us and we can physically see their faces, their dirty clothes and look into their eyes. We might or might not help them at that moment, we may say a prayer for them, or we might support an institution that helps the homeless/orphans/etc.
But, is there anything else that our brother or sister needs, other than material wants?
When my children were in public school, most of the children came from single-parent households (single/never married or divorced mothers); or parents that were not married. Some of these children got to tell me how sad it made them that their parents were not married.
In my children's catechism class, many of their peers were not sure how to feel about abortion, or they supported it.
Some of our neighbors never leave their homes. Some are never invited to the block parties. Some of my coworkers are trying to balance between small children and work during covid and are simply overwhelmed.
What are we to do in situations like these?
Society tells us to keep our opinions to ourselves, especially when children or financial issues are involved. Nobody wants to discuss religion in public.
How did the first Christians evangelize their society?
They were common people that went to work, shopped at the market, and had regular social interactions with their peers. And slowly, cultivating friendships, they would open to those around them, especially kindred spirits to talk about the good news, about Jesus. But first and foremost, they led by example.
We need to also cultivate friendships, and lead by example. We need to find ways to give witness of our faith "by deed and truth" like St. John tells us today.
What are some situations you experience in your life when you realize the person needs a kind word, advice or compassion?
How can we truly be called Christians in a world that does not want to hear the truth?
Sweet Lord Jesus, teach me to put your smile in to the life of every person I meet. Teach me to lead them close to You and Your Church.
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