In the Gospel reading today from John 1, we see an encounter between Jesus and Nathanael. Nathanael, also known as Bartholomew, says to Jesus, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” This after he had just met Jesus. Be sure to read Jesus’ response.
In the first reading today from 1 John 3, we see some very challenging words. St. John writes, “Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life remaining in him.” He goes on, “If someone who has worldly means sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God remain in him? Children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth.”
We talk so often about the importance of our actions. St. John reiterates this today, giving us a concrete example. If we see someone in need and we have the means to help, we must do so. It is not enough to offer lip service. I believe that God puts opportunities into our paths all the time to help others. It’s a great thing to offer prayers for someone. But before we let it go at that, we should be praying for God to show us all that we can do to help a brother or sister in need.
Father, help us today to love in deed and truth. Fill our hearts with love that we may carry that love into the world in whatever way you want us to. Amen.
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