“Love ought to show itself in deeds We all need to hear the words, “I love you”. I have some friends and one of my sisters who say, “I love you” every time we talk on the phone. It is supportive and affirming, especially when there are many miles between our homes. There are some people though who cheapen the words,”I love you”, by their actions. They might say the words just after they beat someone up. Or the words can be used as a bribe for favors desired. Love is cheapened by advertisements. You love me when you take me on a cruise, buy perfumes, a car, toys for children, etc. God doesn’t do cheap! Rather, God’s love is abundant. In Isaiah we hear, Remember Jesus said, “ask and you shall receive”. God wants us to ask for help. We need to ask for help. We can’t do all of life alone, especially the big sorrows that come our way. The challenge is to hear HOW God is helping us. It is sometimes difficult to hear another’s words of love in deeds, as St. Ignatius suggests. Moms and Dads who drive their children to this game, that play, tonight’s party, tomorrow’s recital are showing their love. Caregivers doing household chores for elderly are showing their love. Teachers patiently waiting for students (no matter what age) “getting it” are showing their love. We get so used to people caring for us in small and big ways yet we don’t think often, “s/he is loving me”. God is constantly showing us love through others. God listens to our cries for “HELP”, and someone shows up to help. Of course, we have to ask God…and we have to be open to see and hear God’s answers. They come in so many ways and faces. Pray to be open to hearing and seeing and feeling God’s love for you now. |