March 31, 2006	Read I John 3:16-23
“My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.”
LOVE IN ACTION As our children were growing up, we always made it a priority to sit down at the table and have meals together as often as possible. It was important to have that time to communicate and share with one another. Now that our children are adults with children of their own, we still like to sit around the table after a family dinner, to talk and to enjoy being together. There is a comfortable feeling of being loved and accepted, of knowing that each of us has a place at our family table. At the Lord's table, everyone is welcome. We know we are loved because Jesus laid down his life for us. In the gifts of the Sacraments, we receive strength to enable us to share God's love with those in need of it. The message of this scripture is that all of us are to show love for one another, not only in words, but in action. It troubles me to hear about people who are suffering and in need, especially children. Shouldn't every child be wanted and loved and have food, clothing, shelter, and health care? But how often am I motivated enough to act? When we hear of so many desperate situations, we may rationalize that whatever we do will scarcely make a difference. Keep in mind that the smallest good deed is better than the grandest intention. In 1 John 3:17, we are asked, How does God's love abide in anyone who has the world's goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? This is a question some of us may prefer not to think about. If Jesus is to be our role model, we will have to make sacrifices for others who are in need, to help them and to invite them to find a place at the table. Lord, help us love one another, both in words and in action. Amen. Barbara Lee

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