Memorial of Saint John Neumann, Bishop
Today’s first reading is a core gem in the Christian Life. John is telling us how to Love. Christians must love one another. But we get tripped up when we ask, ‘what does it mean to love?’ Should I be sure to send Christmas cards? Is it just a matter of saying nice things and getting along? John is telling us that love is bigger than that, deeper than that.
How does love really show up in the world? Perhaps more importantly, consider the love you are called to give to family, friends, co-workers, the Church, and especially the poor; how does that love show up? The Spirit commands us through John’s letter: “If someone who has worldly means sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God remain in him?” Our love must be tangible. We have to use all our means. It’s not just the thought that counts; the action counts. “Children, let us love not in work or speech, but in deed and truth.”
Jesus told Nathanael in today’s Gospel that he would see “greater things.” What is greater than loving “in deed and truth?” True love is beyond romance and emotion. It is like heaven opening up, like angels ascending and descending. Jesus, the Son of Man, committed the greatest and truest act of love by emptying himself to become a human baby, by living and dying for us. He didn’t only teach love; he lived it by numerous deeds. Today, ask the Spirit of Love to guide you in deed and truth, to love as God Loves.
-Chris Nieport