Pope Francis speaks about Christian relationships as encounters. That is to say, meeting others attentively and lovingly because we are loved.
The news is full of “encounters,” yet many are encounters of disagreement, anger or violence. Even in our own families, it is often difficult to talk about religion or politics without anger rearing its ugly head or disagreements that cause division or estrangement. People, friends, families can no longer have civil conversations about anything they disagree about. We can do better.
“Know this, my dear brothers: everyone should be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath, for the wrath of a man does not accomplish the righteousness of God.” James 1:19-20
We can do better if we are willing to open our minds and hearts and humble ourselves, knowing that none of us have the whole truth or the ultimate knowledge or perception in any given situation. We cannot separate our life here on earth from our relationship with Jesus. Jesus tells us to follow Him, to listen to Him. When we do that, we will better be able to fulfill His command to “love one another.” Jesus says,
“ … I am the way, the truth and the life.” John 14:6a
God makes the difference. When we remember that together we are connected to God and that “... our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Phil 3:20, then we can approach each other in love, accepting our differing opinions and perspectives as part of our human condition. Seek the Lord and His understanding.
“Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.” Philippians 4:5-6
Think of this, the world needs our Christian witness now more than ever. If we can follow Jesus and truly love as He loves, we can turn our world around. Collectively, Christians can change people one encounter at a time.
We are supposed to stand out, to live differently than the culture. If this is to happen, we will need to get back to basics. Daily prayer, Mass as often as possible, adoration, and evangelization. It takes loving each person we encounter.
“This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:35
Friends, I pray that we are up for the challenge. May God give us the grace we need to follow Him, to be like Him, to love like Him.
Blessings,
Sister Mary Ann Barnhorn, SNDdeN
“I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” John 16:33