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1 John 4:18-19 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
But how do we come to do that, make love perfect so as to cast our fear? Where do we start? Jesus tells us to love and pray for our enemies. Matthew 5: 43-46: “You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. ' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.
That doesn't sound like much fun, does it? We would rather argue and fight. Get our passions stirred in self righteousness. "God is on our side."
I think we must start with humility and penance. That is one reason I like St Francis of Assisi so much. Everyone loved him for his humility and simplicity. It starts with acknowledging our faults. Not just in general, but specific faults. And not just beating ourselves up but celebrating our ongoing conversion and forgiveness.
Time once again, to start over. Advent is coming soon.
But how do we come to do that, make love perfect so as to cast our fear? Where do we start? Jesus tells us to love and pray for our enemies. Matthew 5: 43-46: “You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. ' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.
That doesn't sound like much fun, does it? We would rather argue and fight. Get our passions stirred in self righteousness. "God is on our side."
I think we must start with humility and penance. That is one reason I like St Francis of Assisi so much. Everyone loved him for his humility and simplicity. It starts with acknowledging our faults. Not just in general, but specific faults. And not just beating ourselves up but celebrating our ongoing conversion and forgiveness.
Time once again, to start over. Advent is coming soon.
