I LOVE YOU! Have you ever thought why these three words are so powerful that they could make or break a relationship? I LOVE YOU! Three words that we all say to those we love. What is really in this phrase? It is like a magic phrase. Those words could make someone to smile, but also could provoke depression if not said sometimes.
Those words are important because they summarize everything about trust, confidence, sacrifice, unity, togetherness, and work. For instance, you cannot do well in a job you do not love. This is the same question Jesus asked of Peter: “Do you love me?” Because Jesus knew that if Peter loved him enough, he would do just anything for Him. It is this love that we heard about in the first reading where Paul never tires of bearing witness for Jesus despite so many difficulties and trials. From prison in Jerusalem to captivity in Rome, Paul is ready to give his all for Christ.
My dear sisters and brothers, the question I would like to propose today for some personal reflection is: Do I love Jesus Christ? Before we answer, let us ask ourselves if we can go any length for Jesus. Love does not calculate gain or loss. Love simply acts. When we love Jesus, we can practically do just anything to please the master even when it’s difficult.
As Thomas Merton who was a Trappist monk wrote in his journal: “The wonder of being brought, by God, around a corner and to realize a new road is opening up, perhaps which He alone knows. And that there is no way of traveling it but in Christ and with Him. This is joy and peace. Whatever happens. The result does not matter. I have something to do for Him and, if I do that, everything else will follow.”