The Jews of the time loved only other members of their race. Yet, the teachings of Christ emphasize that we must not only love our friends and family but our enemies! Without knowledge of the teachings of Jesus, how could we know that God required such a feat? St. Paul reminds us that, with regard to God’s Law, “The letter kills, but the spirit quickens.” (Epistle).
Thus, we should not pattern ourselves after those in our society who claim to be Christians but are filled with hate toward others with whom they disagree who are their enemies. In humility we should bring our “sacrifices, which we lay upon Thine altar; that they may obtain pardon for our sins.” (Penance and Holy Eucharist).
On Sunday falls the Feast of St. Joachim, Father of the Blessed Virgin Mary who is commemorated in the Mass and at Lauds in the Breviary.