In the first proclamation St. Paul explained the inner being of Christ Jesus and urged us to cultivate the same as followers of Christ Jesus. This passage also recalls the words of Lord Jesus “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew. 7:16). We are often reactive, unforgiving and hostile to one another. This is our human nature because we are broken vessels. But our Maker has done the great exchange on the Cross. We forget our value; we are purchased by the Precious Blood. Our distorted images of ourselves devalue us to end up in discord and selfish acts. The Lord Jesus confirmed His inner being in the Gospel proclamation. Isn’t this what He meant when He gave us the greatest commandment? “Love one another as I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). The Lord Jesus loves us unconditionally and He invites us to love unconditionally. We are chosen to be loved and to love; to be healed and to heal. Let us become instruments of love in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: Abba Father, your love heals my hurting heart to be steadfast to channel your love to this hurting world. Amen.