HOMILY FOR THE 5TH OF JANUARY
Homily for the 5th of January 1 John 3:11-21; John 1:43-51 In the first reading of today, St. John reiterates the act of love as the pre-eminent Christian virtue. He writes: "For this is the message you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another" (1 John 3:11). Come to think of it, the greatest act of love is not a kiss or embrace. After all, Judas betrayed the Lord with a kiss (Mt 26:49). But the cross is the greatest act of love. St. John tells us: "Let us love not in word or speech , but in truth and action" (1 John 3:18). Dearest brothers and sisters in Christ, fine words will never take the place of fine deeds. Our love for one another must be shown in deeds and at the expense of self-denial and self-sacrifice. Remember, action speaks louder than voice. Love is not mere talk and protestation, it is not mere sentiments. It must be evident in good deeds. We must imitate the love of Christ: "He laid down his life for us, and we ought to ...