Every Sunday, Bishop Edward Malesic writes a Scripture reflection for the faithful. Follow the bishop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Click HERE for the readings.
Today is Mother’s Day. So, first let’s say a big thank you to our mothers who gave us life. Let’s also support those moms in need as we walk with them and help to provide for them and their children.
We all know from early on that we were supposed to obey our parents. Obedience is linked to love. When we love someone, we follow them, we listen to them, we submit ourselves to them, we are willing to give our very lives to them, we obey them.
So, it is easy for us to understand Jesus in the Gospel today, who says to us, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
Jesus also calls us to be with him in the same way that he dwells in his Father. To live in Christ is to be so much in love with him that we are one with him. In fact, the love the Church has for Christ makes us one in him as we become his very Mystical Body on earth. We attempt to do his will on earth, especially by announcing his Gospel of life and love.
This is only possible by the power of the Holy Spirit that is always at work in us, binding us to Jesus, who is bound up in love with the Father. It is a mystery, to be sure, but it is no less true. We have become one in Christ, and it is love that binds us together.
How do we know how much we love Christ? He gives us the answer: “Whoever has my commandments and observes them is the one who loves me.”
Of course, we are not yet perfected. Love is not as easy as it sometimes seems. Still, we believe that Jesus will make us perfect someday. He will purify us, and we will then be saints — who do God’s will in Heaven out of pure love. That day is coming. It is our hope.
And, once again, happy Mother’s Day to our moms. And for those moms who have passed from this life, may they rest in peace as they continue to intercede for us.
Have a blessed week everyone.