"Love must be
sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly
love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your
spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in
prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality."
As I read today’s scripture, I get the image of St. Paul as a
stern parent talking to his bickering kids. How easy it is for siblings to forget that
they are going to be best friends for life, and get caught up in competitive engagements
over the smallest issue. Much like kids who need time out to step back and resolve the
situation fairly, Paul reminds the church in Rome to cooperate with one another and with
the world in general.
The Lenten season is a time of penitence, prayer and preparation for
the miracle of Easter. Like the kids, we should also take this time out to step back and
review our conduct. Have we loved our neighbors as ourselves? Have we been aglow with the
Spirit, serving the Lord? It’s easy to overlook these basic principles as we focus on
the mechanics of daily life, but a healthy relationship with the community, church and God
requires these simple acts of kindness and respect.
