God’s love in action

January 09, 2025 Thursday after Epiphany
Daily Readings: 1 John 4:19–5:4; Luke 4: 14-22

Both liturgical texts today present the essence of Christian love and mission, offering us a holistic view of faith in action. 1 John 4 reminds us that our capacity to love springs from the divine love that first embraced us. “We love because he first loved us” encapsulates a foundational truth: our love originates not from our merit but from God’s grace. This love is not passive; it manifests in joyful obedience to His commandments, as love and faith are intricately woven into the fabric of our relationship with God. Loving others is an extension of our love for Him, demonstrating that authentic faith is never solitary or abstract but is lived out in community and service.

Luke 4:14–22 plunges us into the heart of Jesus’ ministry, where He boldly declares His calling: to preach good news to the poor, proclaim freedom for the prisoners, and set the oppressed free. Jesus’ words echo the heart of God’s love in action, emphasizing that true love is transformative. It seeks justice, uplifts the downtrodden, and breaks the chains of oppression. By aligning Himself with the marginalized, Jesus embodies the love that John speaks of—active, powerful, and irresistible.

Both readings invite us into a deeper understanding of what it means to live as followers of Christ. They challenge us to examine how we embody this love in our daily lives and interactions. Are we merely passive recipients of God’s love, or are we active participants in His mission? The call to love is both a privilege and a responsibility; it demands that we engage with the world, advocating for justice and compassion.

A Call to Action for Catholic Living: Embrace God’s love actively by living in joyful obedience, serving others, and advocating for justice. Be a visible witness of Christ’s transformative love in a world in need.