The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart. — Psalm 19:9a

Mass Readings: Numbers 11:25-29 / James 5:1-6 / Mark 9:38-43,45,47-48 

The Deepest Love 

There’s a line in a prayer that I say everyday that came to mind when I read today’s Gospel: “Father, let me not run from the love which you offer.” While Jesus’ words of cutting off appendages and plucking out eyes may sound harsh, what I hear in these statements is the depth of God’s love for me. 

Nothing, says Jesus, can be worth separation from God’s eternal and unending love for me. Nothing that causes me to sin, no matter how alluring now, is worth my salvation. In one dramatic line after another, Jesus passionately urges me to let go, shed — even cut off — anything and everything that in grave sin would keep me from joining Him in eternal life! This is true love. This is the deepest love. 

Prayer: In each of my dyings, Lord, give me Your light and Your love.