Love God, Love Neighbor by Fr. Anthony Uche

MISERICORDIA FOR LIFE (A Ministry of the Word of God)

Monday of the First Week of Lent 

Love God and Love Neigbour        

by Fr Anthony Uche

Music: Amazing Grace Licensed: Envato Elements Pty Ltd

St Margaret of Scotland RC Carshalton Beeches.

 

AI Summary of today's Message

"Embracing Holiness: Love God, Love Neighbor," a spiritual reflection by Fr. Anthony Uche.

In this episode, we dive into the Scriptures of the first week of Lent, drawing from the book of Leviticus, Psalm 19, and St. Matthew's Gospel. Join Fr. Anthony Uche as he leads us through the exploration of a fundamental truth - the intertwining essence of our love for God and our love of our neighbors. Our journey towards Holiness begins here.

Fr. Anthony prays that his words and thoughtful reflections on scriptures will bring us closer to God, Our Rescuer and Rock. Delving into the first reading, we are invited to heed the Lord's calling through Moses, to be holy, just like He is. As children of God, the quest for holiness is inherent in us. It's like a thirst that we yearn to satisfy. Fr. Anthony beautifully illustrates this using Psalm 63.

Moving forward, he urges everyone to understand that our call to holiness is intensely rooted in love - love for God and love for our brethrens. Having built our desires for the Lord through prayers, self-denials, and alms giving, we are encouraged to extend this love to our neighbors without distinction or preference. We are called upon to share this Godly love. Notable reference is made to Elder St. John's letter iterating that loving God and loving our neighbors are inseparable expressions of God's selfless and sacrificial nature.

In conclusion, we are reminded that our acts of love towards the needy will significantly contribute to our final judgement. Feeding the hungry, quenching the thirsty, welcoming immigrants, housing the homeless, and visiting the sick or incarcerated are acts of worship situated in the love of Christ. Fr. Anthony concludes that holiness is fully realized not just when we show charity, but when our integrity and relationship with others are secured and motivated by Christ's love.