Today’s Catholic Reflection
In 1 John, the author shares that our love for God comes from His love for us. If someone says they love God but holds hatred for others, they are not being honest. Genuine love for God shows itself in how we treat our brothers and sisters. Believing in Jesus as the Christ means we are born of God. Loving God and following His commandments go hand in hand, and those commandments are easy to carry. Those born of God find strength to overcome the world through their faith.
In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus returns to Galilee filled with the Spirit. He teaches in synagogues and earns the admiration of the people. When he comes to Nazareth, he reads from Isaiah, announcing that the Spirit has anointed him to bring good news to the poor, free those held captive, and restore sight to the blind. After he reads, he tells them that this prophecy is fulfilled right in front of them. The people are astonished by his words and the authority he carries.