Christ died on the cross to save each of us from sin and death – the supreme act of love, the ultimate gift of self. This is what love looks like. We, who are made in His image and likeness, are called to this same love, and actually find ourselves through this love. Every act of love is a participation in Jesus’ act of love on the cross. We become most truly ourselves when we allow ourselves to be conformed to the life of Christ — from His birth, to His suffering and death, to His Resurrection. In His life, all of our ordinariness, trials, and joys are illumined. In His Passion, all of our sufferings and pains take on redemptive meaning. And in His Resurrection, all of our wounds are healed, and our hearts are restored. It is in Him that the truth of who we are and how we are called to love is made clear.
PRAYER FOR LOVE
Jesus, You are love, and Your love is unending. You loved me first, and I believe in Your love for me. You say that I am made in Your image, and that You want my life to unleash Your love into the world. Jesus, I give You everything. Jesus, illuminate all my joys and sorrows. Jesus, redeem all my sufferings. Jesus, heal my wounds. My heart is restored in You. Jesus, I give You permission: flood me with Your love today, that You may love through me. Help me to be with You. Amen.
Originally printed in IMPRINT Magazine Fall 2021.
