31st Sunday of Ordinary Time- November 3, 2024

First Proclamation: Deuteronomy 6:1-9

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:2,3-4,5-6,7-8

Second Proclamation: Hebrews 9:11-14

Gospel Proclamation: Mark 12:28-34

Homily by +Bp. Romie- Jun Peñalosa

To Love God is to Love Others: A Homily Reflection by Bishop Romie-Jun Peñalosa

In this Sunday Mass homily at Saint Michael in Kalibo, Bishop Romie-Jun emphasized a profound truth: to love God is to love others. Since God embodies the highest good, we must shape our lives around this essential love. Understanding this connection between loving God and loving others is foundational to our faith and practice.

 

To love others, we must first start by listening. We listen so we can hear God’s voice in our lives and the needs of those around us. When we truly listen, we open ourselves to blessings because every commandment carries its own reward—leading us to long life, growth, and prosperity. Therefore, the key to receiving these blessings lies in doing the right thing for the right reason. Importantly, that right reason is love.

 

Moreover, love requires us to organize our lives for the benefit of others. When we love authentically, we engage not just our emotions but also our minds, souls, hearts, and strengths. It’s crucial to recognize that true love is a conscious decision, one that involves commitment and action. Everything we do should be deeply rooted in our love for God. When we carry the love of Christ in our hearts, that love naturally flows to our fellowmen, enabling us to make a difference in their lives.

 

Let us anchor our actions in God’s love and dedicate ourselves to serving others. By embracing the belief that to love God is to love others, we cultivate a community filled with compassion and kindness. This approach not only enriches our own lives but also creates a positive impact on those around us.

 

Check out our Sermon page for more homily recaps and video links to our uplifting messages. God bless!

I AM BLESSED TO BE A BLESSING