https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062726.cfm
Loving the Least with the Most
We all have an alarm that goes off when someone is in crisis. Think of the firefighters who run into a burning house to save someone, or the healthcare workers who sacrifice themselves for the greater good, especially during these challenging times. These are the everyday heroes we know who inspire us with their selfless acts of love and courage.
In the Gospel, we hear about a centurion, a Roman military officer, who would have been an example to Jesus’ followers. He put his reputation on the line for an enslaved person. It’s important to note that Romans treated enslaved people worse than we treat animals, and they could kill them without consequence. This centurion, however, saw the value of his servant, and his actions are a powerful example of love and compassion.
Jesus couldn’t help but see himself in the centurion. The distress of his servant was his distress. He treated him like his son. When we love others, especially those who have little or no worth in the eyes of the world, God’s heart melts, and God responds to all our needs.
With Christ’s heart as the focus, the centurion readily believed in Jesus’s ability to heal his servant. He exemplifies a harmony of faith and love. St. James states in his letter, “Show me your faith, and I will show you the work of charity that backs up my faith” (James 2:18).
God can’t help but respond to needs born of love for others. Genuine love for others is the backbone of faith, moving God’s heart to heal and save us. This indiscriminate love has the power to transform our hands, words, and hearts into the words and actions of Jesus, offering hope and optimism to a world in need of love. “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these” (John 14:12).
Gospel Challenge:
Love the least in the world with the most of your heart. No one we encounter is a nobody to Jesus. So, who needs your heart today? It may be someone you overlooked. Remember that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, is valuable and worthy of our love and respect.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
