Love neighbor.
The twin tenets of our faith.
Sublimely simple,
but “easier said than done.”
We complicate
with catechisms,
books of discipline,
statements of belief.
These good intentions
often accommodate
our fears and prejudice.
Loving God
is circumscribed.
The definition
of neighbor narrows.
The Spirit reminds me
of Fr. Richard Rohr’s* advice:
In controversies
of theology and morality
always ask…
What is the loving response?
Consider a change
of mind or heart.
Be prepared
to set aside
our rules and regulations
for love.
Amen.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-7)
* - Fr. Richard Rohr
