From today’s Scripture: “Above all, let your love for one another be intense, because love covers a multitude of sins.”—1 Pt 4:8

Thank God, love covers the multitude of our sins. As a pastor, there are times when I did not listen closely enough or responded too quickly to a request or demonstrated frustration or even anger with a parishioner. The level of regret when that happens is tremendous. Yet, most parishioners have been kind, merciful, and forgiving. This might be because even in my weakness and sinfulness, I have aimed to demonstrate my love through my pastoral presence before such errors have occurred.

Maybe Peter writes these words because he loved Christ intensely but sinned gravely with his triple denial of the Lord. Most of us wrestle with our human limitations and sinfulness, especially with our families, yet intense love can help us seek forgiveness and receive forgiveness. Love is the force of hope, healing, and happiness!

Today’s author is Father Steve Pawelk, second vice president and director of Glenmary’s novitiate program.

Free delivery!  Sign up to receive this in English or in Spanish daily by email.