February 14, Sts. Cyril and Methodius

Offer to God a sacrifice of praise. — Psalm 50:14

Mass Readings: Genesis 4:1-15,25 / Mark 8:11-13

Ripple Effect  

In today’s first reading, Cain sins but murder wasn’t the beginning of sin. Sin began with a gnawing resentment — against both Abel and God. When confronting Cain’s sinful attitude (v. 6), God also reminded him, “If you do well, you can hold up your head” (v. 7). A sinful attitude has a ripple effect. As the English clergyman Philip Henry said: “Sins are like circles in the water when a stone is thrown into it; one produces another.” Cain resisted God’s grace, and moved from resentment to murder. Little wonder Jesus redefined murder to include anger (Mt 5:21-22).  

On Valentine’s Day, the world celebrates “love.” Biblical love, however, is not about sentiment, but about choosing to act lovingly. Such love also has a ripple effect: When we act lovingly, feelings of love often follow. 

Prayer: God of Love, help me to love people as You do.