Daily Gospel Reflection for February 20, 2022

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Kathryn Mulderink

Today's Gospel: Luke 6:27-38

Today we are reminded of the absolute demands of Love: We must love without measure, forgiving one another, loving even our enemies, rejecting all retaliation, giving all we can in the name of Christ.

This, of course, is impossible for us on a natural level, but the Spirit of God in us empowers us to act on a supernatural level so that we can truly pour ourselves out for others. Because we are created in God’s image and likeness and filled with the Spirit at Baptism, we are able to enlarge our capacity for self-giving, self-forgetful love and become the Heart of Christ in the world. In another place, St. Paul begs the Romans to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice as spiritual worship. Like Christ on the cross, we must be willing to pour ourselves out completely for the love of Christ and others.

We have the (terrifying) freedom to turn away from this radiant mission. When we are good to others for our own benefit, we become the recipient of our own “gift,” which is no gift at all. When we choose ourselves over others, we prevent our own growth in Christ. When we judge and condemn people or refuse to forgive, we create a mold for the measure with which God will pour out His goodness on us!

We can certainly judge actions, but we must be careful not to judge the person who commits them (this is “hating the sin, loving the sinner”). We must be kind and merciful to all, as our loving Father is kind and merciful. We cannot love in percentages: “The measure of love is to love without measure,” according to St. Augustine. And in the end, “we are judged on love,” says St. John of the Cross.

Ponder:

How can I lovingly pour out more of myself today - my time, my energy, my patience - and truly love without calculation?

Pray:

Lord, fill my heart with the purifying and attracting Fire of Your Love, so that I can bring Your light to every darkened place.

Click to tweet:
"The measure of love is to love without measure." How can I pour myself out for others today? #dailygospel

Copyright 2022 Kathryn Mulderink

Kathryn Mulderink, MA, is mother of seven, grandmother of four, and a Secular Discalced Carmelite. She has published five books. Over 30 years, she has worked in school and parish administration, and as a writer and voice talent for Catholic Radio. Currently, she serves the Church as a writer and speaker, helping others encounter Christ and engage their faith. www.KathrynTherese.com