https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060624.cfm
Love the Lord first and then your neighbor
Reflect on the last meaningful conversation you had with someone. Did you make eye contact and notice the tone in their voice? How did you feel when they trusted you enough to share something intimate about themselves?
Meaningful conversations are the basis of a loving relationship and lasting friendship. Unfortunately, our society is alarmingly losing our love for one another. Sherry Turtle, in an interview, “How Smartphones Are Killing Conversation,” gives the following statistic:
“Eighty-nine percent of Americans say that during their last social interaction, they took out a phone, and 82 percent said that it deteriorated the conversation they were in. Basically, we’re doing something that we know is hurting our interactions.”
While cell phones and other gadgets can keep our hearts from each other and our relationships superficial if we are not careful, it doesn’t change the fact that we need intimacy to love each other.
In the greatest commandments, Jesus has a secret that breaks down all our barriers: “Love the Lord your God with your whole heart and soul and your neighbor as yourself.” When Jesus lives in our hearts, we do not fear what we might see in ourselves and others.
The perfect love of the Lord (1 John 4:18) drives out any fear of knowing our weakness and sinfulness. Intimacy with Jesus opens the door for us to be vulnerable with each other.
Gospel Challenge:
Take time away from your cell phone and give that time to the Lord. Do this repeatedly for fifteen minutes a day and even during moments throughout the day. Over a while, you will notice how much more meaningful your relationships will become. It just happens that way because that’s how God made us.
Peace everyone.
Love Your Neighbor!
Fr. Rick Pilger, IC
