Some professional swimmers believe that many beginners drown in rivers because they struggle against the water instead of working with it. They argue that if a drowning person relaxes and stops fighting, they will naturally rise to the surface. According to them, the key to staying afloat is love and surrendering to the water rather than resisting it.
In today’s first readings, the writers repeatedly emphasise a particular law-one that calls for love rather than hatred, peace rather than conflict. This commandment urges us to love everyone, including our enemies. By doing so, we reflect the nature of God, who allows the sun to shine and the rain to fall on both the good and the wicked alike.
A powerful example of this principle in action is Mr. Goodluck Jonathan, a former president of Nigeria. He distinguished himself among past Nigerian leaders through an act of humility and love. On April 1, 2015, when one of his fiercest political opponents defeated him in the presidential election, he immediately called his rival and said, “Congratulations!” A news reporter noted that he was the first sitting Nigerian president to concede defeat and ensure a peaceful transition of power.
Dear people of God, if we desire to rise higher in life as true sons and daughters of God, we must embrace love. Just as Jesus demonstrated by sacrificing his life for all-both the righteous and the unrighteous-we, too, are called to love unconditionally. Only then can we truly elevate ourselves in the eyes of God. Peace be with you.
