From Living Faith Daily Catholic Devotions (Jan/Feb/Mar 2026)

Christmas Weekday

1 John 4:19–5:4 + Psalm 72:1-2, 14-15, 17 + Luke 4:14-22a

Full-Out Love

Whoever loves God must also love his brother. 1 John 4:21

It’s hard to love all the people the Lord puts in our path.  What about the neighbour with the pool who hosts noisy parties and raucous 5am swims? While serving on a jury, can you love the suspected criminal, even after you hear witnesses tell of violent deeds? What about your coworker who coverts your job and never gives you a friendly word or glance. Our lives are always populated by people who may seem unlovable.

What a tough assignment: to see beyond the sin and look upon the real person hidden behind difficult circumstances, personal wounds and sinful choices.

In our human weakness, we find it almost impossible to muster up full-out love for these brothers and sisters.  When you know your heart is not there, ask the Holy Spirit to shine the light of grace on this person’s path so he or she could see more clearly what is right, true and good.  In this way, you lean towards the love God is asking of you.

□ Jennifer Christ