Read 1 John 2:3-11, Ps. 96:1-3,5-6, Luke 2:22-35
“Whoever says, ‘I am in the light,’ while hating a brother or sister, is still in the darkness.” (1 John 2:9)
Hatred is often considered a natural response to people who offend us, harm us or act as obstacles to our well-being or progress. Hatred begins with anger, which then festers into a feeling of pain. When anger is not addressed, it evokes bitterness and hatred. As natural as hatred may seem, St. John teaches us today that hatred is blindness.
To hate a person is to write off the person. It is closing your eyes from all the good the person was in the past or could be in the future. No matter how bad we are or the number of bad things we do, God never hates us. Like the prodigal Father, God waits for our return and repentance.
St. John says: “He who says he is in the light and hates his brother is in the darkness still. ... He who hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.” Just as one cannot walk far in the night when it is dark, we cannot go far in life with hatred in our hearts.
Hatred (often expressed by unforgiveness) betrays our Christian faith: “By this, we may be sure that we are in him: he who says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.” How did Jesus walk? He forgave his killers. How are we to know we are in Christ Jesus? By forgiving our enemies.
Given the events surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ, Mary and Joseph knew that Jesus was a special child. However, they still chose to obey the law. They did not see themselves as greater than the law. When it was time for their purification, they presented Jesus in the temple and brought the basic items required. This speaks volumes of their humility and wisdom.
As much as Mary and Joseph tried to behave like every other parent, the baby Jesus was like a light too bright to be hidden, especially by those who were already close to God. When Simeon saw the child, he knew he had seen the Messiah. He held the child in his hands and began to prophesy. Mary treasured everything in her heart.
When you are close to God, He will reveal many things. You will learn what your physical sight (or natural knowledge) cannot fathom. However, to get such a level of divine revelation, keep your heart free from hatred. Remember the saying of Jesus: “Blessed are the pure in heart; they shall see God.”
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, open my heart to love my neighbour as myself. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (5th day within the octave of Christmas. Bible Study: 1 John 2:3-11, Ps. 96:1-3,5-6, Luke 2:22-35)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu