Dear Friends,

On the first Sunday of November we heard from the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 12. Jesus is asked an honest question from a scribe who asks which is the greatest commandment? Jesus answers with the commandment to love God. Every Jew recited what is called the Shema, to love God with our whole heart. Jesus adds another commandment, which is to love our neighbor. 

Israel’s thought of a neighbor was a fellow countryman. Jesus gives an expanded understanding of this commandment, that neighbor meant all people, in all places, no boundaries. The scribe agreed with Jesus on his response to his question and no one asked him any more questions. 

To love God is to be tied to the way we love neighbor, they cannot be separated. To give evidence that we love God, we show through love of neighbor. How do we love our neighbor?                    

There are many answers, but one to reflect on is to show respect towards others. After this difficult election cycle, we as Christians need to reflect on how we can better show respect towards others. A willingness to give dignity, give the benefit of the doubt, to listen to others. I believe the most practical way to show love of neighbor is to be respectful to everyone. In our language towards others, in our treatment of others, and to overcome the temptation to respond in unkind ways when provoked. It is not easy, yet Jesus says the commandment to love our neighbor is one of the greatest commandments.  

Our theme I WILL LOOK TWICE UNTIL I SEE CHRIST IN YOU continues through the upcoming Advent season. I invite everyone to think differently after this past election and give the best Christian witness to the world. In the Acts of the Apostles, the Church grew because people who saw them said, “see how they love one another.” A good reminder for everyone in the days ahead.  

Peace in Christ,

Fr. Eric