Comments on: Sunday, 8/20/17 – Universal Love

By: Anna

Anna — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 00:01:23 +0000

Amen! Thank you for being inclusive in your reflection. Yes, we all stumble and fall into categories of people who do not exemplify the Jesus Way of acceptance, compassion, and love. Thank you for not being judgemental and extending the hand and heart of mercy by stating that “we have the responsibility to love them and be respectful and pray for them, even our enemies.” Thank you, Joe, for allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through you. God bless you and your mission.

By: Mari

Mari — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 00:33:01 +0000

Aren’t we supposed to love our enemy. also? We could say that their actions are wrong but not stand with such hate filled judgment. Doesn’t that make us also haters? Also, I agree with Wayne and agree that we do need to start with ourselves first and need to lose the self righteousness that we sometimes have.

By: Wayne

Wayne — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 16:02:25 +0000

As I read the well intended remarks I still see the “human condition” of directing the focus on others rather than ourselves. Ie: “if we could help OTHERS”… as though WE have mastered the art and virtue of unconditional love… Only God is capable of this… I would suggest we start with OURSELVES and stay focused on ourselves rather than the judgement I can’t help but see in some of the remarks… Judgement that is so highly influenced by today’s disgustingly power-hungry political parties… And I DO MEAN ” ALL political parties”… These days, you either agree with someone or you are chastised… What ever happened to constructive conversation and debate? Walking in another person’s shoes?
If we as Christians can stay “on task” with the premise of ” let peace begin with me” and stop being consumed by IDENTITY politics we could make much better strides toward a more peaceful existence… Way too much self- righteous stuff going on in this country… And politicians, ALL OF THEM, need to know that pushing God out of our lives if precisely why and how we are in this place that we ALL created…
Goid’s peace be with you …

By: Karen J. Czapla

Karen J. Czapla — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 13:28:29 +0000

A few years ago as a volunteer in a Spiritual Care Department of a Catholic Hospital, after coming off the floor, the priest in charge made a comment. It was one that I have always remembered. “God is Love, isn’t that what it is all about?” Jesus left us with two commandments, the two greatest commandments. “Thou shalt Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength. And your neighbor as yourself.” It is obvious in today’s world Love is lacking.

By: Mike Ruzza

Mike Ruzza — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 12:12:28 +0000

Very well said Joe. If we could help others to ‘break through’ the veil of lies and hate and give them an example of love in the midst of disorder and violence; I feel that hope would become like a bright light leading them out of the darkness, which is where they now live. Let us also stop taking ‘sides’ and blaming this group or that; rather let us take the ONLY side: that of God and love. Love for all and enemies too; for that literally is our only sure way to turn hate aside and reach the hearts and minds of those who have been wronged, and those who have been blamed for the wronging too.

By: Uchenna Uju

Uchenna Uju — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 11:41:28 +0000

This reflection is indeed very incisive and timely. The same heart that has been taught to hate can be made to love. I pray that we as Catholic Christians continue to show love, regardless of the hate being thrown our way by the world, and that in doing so, we are truly the Salt of the earth. May God bless and keep us.

By: Laura

Laura — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 11:28:47 +0000

Thank you, Joe. It is not for us to say who will be given the gift of faith but for God. For the faithful, it is right that we leave our mark, our ‘crumbs’ for those with hardened hearts, as a means to lead them to Jesus. It is Jesus who is waiting for us. He is always asking us if we want to be used as an instrument of his love. But sometimes in subtle or little ways. Thank you for your wise words. Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me, a sinner.

By: Adegoke Ayodele

Adegoke Ayodele — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 07:18:50 +0000

Thanks for this wonderful soul lifting message.