https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050626.cfm
Big Hearts
How big can Jesus make our hearts? His love has the power to transform even those who have abandoned their faith and perhaps joined another church that is not Catholic. By embracing love and inclusivity, we can bridge divides and bring hope and inspiration into our communities.
Our Catholic faith isn’t a contest. It’s a beautiful expression of openness and a willingness to accept and embrace everyone, making each person feel truly welcomed and valued, just as Jesus did in the Gospels and the disciples did in the first generation of our faith. The apostles encountered people who were not Jewish. A Jew could not even speak to a Gentile. The apostles remembered that Jesus cured the Roman centurion’s son and asked the Samaritan woman to drink water from her well.
Jesus is the Vine, but he is also the entire plant. At the first Council of Jerusalem, the apostles set aside judgment. They received a new commandment from Jesus: love as He loved them. This example encourages us to grow in love and hope that all people will someday be welcomed at the Lord’s Table.
We cannot keep our faith to ourselves. Each branch of the Vine reaches every part of it. The time will come when all Christians can eat and drink at our table. The Lord alone knows that date.
Gospel Challenge:
Until then, our responsibility is to grow in love for Christ Jesus as he reaches out to us and to the people we meet every day, inspiring us to be more loving and inclusive in our actions.
Do not be surprised when Jesus reaches out to touch someone you find different or difficult. Consider who that person might be-someone who no longer eats and drinks with us or who challenges your comfort zone. Pray for them and for yourself to be a loving presence of Christ, practicing patience and understanding in all interactions.
LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
www.bscchurch.com
