Love and forgiveness go together

1Cor 8:1b-7.11-13; Psalm: 138; Lk 6:27-38

In Luke 6:27-38, Jesus challenges his followers to love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, bless those who curse us, pray for those who mistreat us, and give to anyone who asks of us. This passage is a powerful reminder of the radical love and forgiveness that Jesus calls us to embody in our daily lives. As we reflect on these verses, we can turn to the wisdom of the saints for guidance and inspiration.

Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta once said, “If you judge people, you have no time to love them.” This quote perfectly captures the essence of Luke 6:27-38. Jesus is calling us to move beyond our natural inclination to judge and condemn others, and instead show them love and compassion. Mother Teresa’s life of service to the poorest of the poor is a testament to the transformative power of love and forgiveness.

Similarly, Saint Francis of Assisi lived out the teachings of Jesus radically. He famously said, “It is in giving that we receive.” This quote echoes the message of Luke 6:30, where Jesus encourages us to give to others without expecting anything in return. Saint Francis understood that true fulfillment comes not from accumulating wealth or possessions, but from giving of ourselves in love to others.

Saint Therese of Lisieux, also known as the “Little Flower,” taught that minor acts of kindness can have a big impact. She once said, “Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, here by a smiling look, there by a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” This quote reminds us that even the smallest gestures of love and kindness can bring light into the darkness of someone’s life.

The teachings of Jesus in Luke 6:27-38 call us to embody radical love and forgiveness in our interactions with others. As we reflect on these verses, we can look to the wisdom of the saints for guidance and inspiration. Mother Teresa, Saint Francis, and Saint Therese lived out the message of love and mercy in their own lives, showing us the transformative power of following Jesus’ teachings. May we take their example to heart and strive to love and forgive others as Christ has loved and forgiven us.