Love is to make sacrifice and understand the beloved

1 Jn 4:7-10, Mk 6:34-44. Today's first reading uses the word "love" nine times. Love is of God, it comes from Him. In fact, God is love. If we love others, we have been begotten by God and we know God. We have probably met grumpy, fanatics who treat others terribly in the name of God. Some even kill others in the name of God. John says that they cannot possibly know God for whoever is without love does not know God who is love. Love is not some warm, fuzzy feeling, although it may include that at times. To love is to make sacrifice and understand the beloved. God revealed His love in His only Begotten Son who gave His life for us. He did this so that we might know Him and have life through Him, namely, that we might learn how to be like God and love others.

Thus, in today's Gospel, Jesus shows us the example of love as highlighted in His miraculous feeding of the five thousand. He provided for them and gave them food to eat. Today, we are called to reflect, reciprocate and appreciate God’s generous offer of love and mercy. We are challenged to draw close to Him, entrusting ourselves to this love, which He has shown us through His Son, who fed the multitudes of five thousand men and gave us spiritual sustenance through His truth. To comprehend the love of God is to understand what St Augustine, in his homily: "Love, and do what you will." To love God and our neighbour is to will what is best for them. It is to sacrifice for them. It is to even take abuse, if necessary, for them or even from them. If we love, it is enough. "Love, and do what you will."

May the Lord put His Word in our thoughts, His praise on our lips and His love in our hearts so that they may guide our lives and keep us near to God! Amen!! Good morning and have a wonderful day!!!