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We live in a world that is besieged by so much suffering: wars in the Holy Land, Ukraine and other countries; hateful rhetoric in the United States and locally here in Oregon; and individuals on the streets battling homelessness.
During last Sunday’s mass when I heard the song, "They Will Know We Are Christians By Our Love," I asked myself, where is that love in our world full of suffering? Where are those actions geared to demonstrate love for those who are hurting?
As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, we should also be reminded of what it means to be Christians. For me, the best way to do so is to look at Jesus’ example. While Jesus was tired and fleeing from violence, he was not filled with anger or hate. While Jesus was poor, he didn’t seek power for himself, but rather, stood for the meek. Jesus was a teacher, not a bully. His example of compassion was demonstrated by loving everyone and asking us how we can seek to love, even our enemies.
When I see students from various high schools volunteering at EMO's food pantry or when I attend an award celebration for our domestic violence survivor work, I am reminded that each of us holds God’s love, and we must be examples of that love for others—even those we find hard to love. At Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, we will love as Jesus loved. We will love our neighbor.
Have a blessed holiday season!
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