There are times in my life when I have had difficulty loving myself let alone loving someone else. However, the command from Jesus for us today is to love one another. This is not always the easiest thing to do. There are people that just rub me the wrong way and surely I rub others the wrong way. No one is perfect but I think most of us try to love everyone. It is easier to love someone than not.
In April of 2004 my wife, Anna, and I went on vacation to Ireland. One of the places we stayed for three days was an old manor house which had been turned into a restaurant, cooking school and hotel. The facility was run by Quakers and one of the many remarkable things about the place was that there were no keys to the rooms. It was part of the Quaker philosophy of friendship and trust.
During our visit, we experienced a terrible storm for a day and a half. Heavy rain and wind made everyone choose to stay inside which in a strange way brought an extremely unlikely and diverse group of people together. There was an Italian film crew doing a documentary on Ireland. There was member of the British Parliament with his family, a touring opera singer with her pianist from Germany and my wife and I. There were about 20 people all total plus the hotel staff. We were all in one place with nothing in common and nowhere to go for the moment.
With hurricane force winds and sideways lashing rain outside we remained inside safe and warm. During the day we had great food, wonderful conversations, and because there was no television we entertained ourselves. That evening after diner spontaneous entertainment began. The opera singer performed, the Italians had instruments, and the staff played traditional Irish music.There was story telling and dancing. It was a exciting and magical experience.
The next day was clear and beautiful and everyone was off in their own direction. Fast forward 3 days and our vacation was about to end and we were walking down the street in “Temple Bar”, Dublin. All of a sudden we hear a strong voice yell out, ” Robert, Anna”. It was the Italian film crew greeting us with hugs and kisses.
In the Gospel readings for Sunday and the the Gospel for today, Jesus says four (4) times “Love one another” (John 13 and John 15)
I know what you are thinking,
“Do I have too?”
Yes we do!
Chapter 15 of John is the “I am the vine you are are the branches” sermon. Obey my commandments and love one another. Jesus said this at the Last Supper which is obviously significant and important.
To love one another seems an impossible task for nations, world leaders, even families to do in our world today.
However, every act of love begins with you. When you give of yourself even in a small way, you are loving someone. In family gatherings you are loving by putting differences aside. You may not like a neighbor, but a friendly greeting or simple act of kindness shows love. Support your community: donate blood, support Saint Vincent de Paul, volunteer with a group serving the homeless, the poor, the environment. Reach out learn and listen to others from different cultures and religions. The possibilities are limitless. Be respectful in your language. These are all simple acts of love that begin with you and spread to others.
I love you!
God Bless
Bob Burford
Prayer: Have a great and loving Memorial Day Weekend!
