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Reflection for Sunday 05/6/06

READINGS
First Reading: Acts 15:21-27
Second Reading: Revelation 21:1-5a
Gospel: John 13:31-33a, 34-35

REFLECTION:
At the Last Supper Jesus told his disciples, “I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also shall love one another.” He also said, “…all will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another.” Jesus seems to be telling us that our discipleship is to be defined by our relationship with others. We are called to interact with other people with the loving care that Jesus modeled for us. Jesus reached out to the weakest, accepting them as they were, touching them, caring for them, comforting them, offering them hope. Throughout our lives we have opportunities to reach out to others. Some things we are comfortable doing and we do them well but perhaps Jesus is calling us to stretch a little and find more ways to be of service to each other. Perhaps we need to foster in our hearts a more caring attitude and develop a broader view of what we are capable of doing that could make a difference in someone else’s life. Jesus offered the supreme sacrifice of his life for us. What are we willing to do for our brothers and sisters?

1. When have you seen the power of love overcome a bad situation?
2. Do you believe love is stronger than hate? Why?

PRAYER:
Dear Jesus, teach us to love one another as you love us. Make us more aware of the needs of others and help us to recognize ways in which we can assist them. Amen.

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