Listen

One person considers some days to be more sacred than others, while another person considers all days to be the same. Each person must have their own convictions. Someone who thinks that a day is sacred, thinks that way for the Lord. Those who eat, eat for the Lord, because they thank God. And those who don’t eat, don’t eat for the Lord, and they thank the Lord too. We don’t live for ourselves and we don’t die for ourselves.

But why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you look down on your brother or sister? We all will stand in front of the judgment seat of God.

Romans 14:5–7, 10

Think

We have a profound invitation from God, a calling to live in love with our fellow human beings. Interpersonal relationships are very important. That is why St. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, emphasizes the importance of relationships and the value we place on our brothers and sisters. He invites us to pray, understand, and reflect before we criticize, because each of us has a responsibility to model the love of Jesus through our actions.

Some people drift away from the Church or simply do not want to return because they have encountered hurtful actions and harsh criticism that are not in keeping with the true gospel, which seeks justice, healing, and reaching out to everyone—without exception—through kindness. Every day we have a new opportunity to amend our lives and our actions. As St. Ignatius of Loyola says, “Love should be shown more through actions than through words.”

Karla Sánchez Rivera

Question to Ponder:

How can my actions demonstrate Jesus’ love and help others feel valued, healed, and welcome in the faith community?

Pray

Jesus, help me to speak slowly, to listen more, to be kinder, and to share the love you give us. I want to show the kindness and love you showed in your life. Amen.

Go

Reflect on your own life: What role do you play? You’re invited to forgive and be forgiven.