We Christians say that we are new people filled with the Spirit, but we all have a history of self-deception. How do we know that we have passed from death to life? We know that we are no longer "among the living dead" (1 Jn 3:14), but are alive in Christ because of our love for the brothers and sisters. We love them so much that by God's grace we will even lay down our lives for them (1 Jn 3:16). Our love for other Christians is so practical that we provide for their needs at our own expense (1 Jn 3:17).
This love for other Christians extends to our neighbors (see Mt 22:39) and even to our enemies (Mt 5:44). To love everyone this deeply under any circumstances is humanly impossible and truly divine. This proves that we have received a new nature (see Jn 3:3), become new creations (see Gal 6:15), and are disciples of Jesus (Jn 13:35).
Has this Christmas season been further proof that God Himself and eternal life abide in your hearts? (see 1 Jn 3:15) If not, repent and end the Christmas season loving with a divine love.
| PRAYER: | Father, may I love my enemies as You do. |
| PROMISE: | "I solemnly assure you, you shall see the sky opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." –Jn 1:51 |
| PRAISE: | St. John introduced Forty Hours devotions, the sacrament of love, to a whole new world. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College