“What’s going on with the world?” I hear people asking more and more. It’s as if things are starting to fall apart faster. Values are no longer at the forefront – everyone just does what feels right for them. 

I think many people are looking for something because they no longer know where they belong. They’re unsure of who they are, and even more unsure of where to go. Maybe they’ve lost all hope and are simply creating these unrealistic dreams to cope. But it doesn’t work. It’s as if the people of the world are running around like headless chickens. No direction. No plan. No purpose. 

Actually, the world is yearning for God, but they don’t know it. Do we know it? We’re made in God’s image. We’re God’s representatives on earth, and it’s our job to help these people. 

And it’s not a difficult task. Often, people think we must grab other people by the throat and demand what their story is with God, but that’s not the case. 

The task is much easier. This task is actually fun to live, and it takes little effort. In fact, it should be obvious to us who are God’s children. We just have to love! 

12No one has seen God, ever. But if we love one another, God dwells deeply within us, and his love becomes complete in us—perfect love! 

It’s evident that a significant portion of the world lives without acknowledging God. Their actions often demonstrate a path of self-destruction and harm to others, leaving little to no trace of divine love in their interactions. 

For this reason, our way of life must actively proclaim an alternative message. When we speak to each other, we must show love. When we do something, the world must be able to see what true love looks like. 

It’s not always that easy, especially when things do not go as smoothly as we had planned. Yet, it’s during those difficult times – when crises erupt and our carefully laid plans crumble – that our composure shatters, and we react no differently than the loveless world around us. 

We need to practice love, especially within our own homes. It is precisely in those close relationships, where we slip up so easily, that we must help each other to always act in love. 

When we prioritise filling each other’s need for love, even when emotions are intense and we don’t get what we want, we achieve something truly meaningful. This ability will then translate to our interactions outside the home, allowing others to perceive God in us. 

And maybe, just maybe, someone will ask: “What is it about you that is so different?” – and then we can point to God. 

Please help us with that, Lord. 

Scripture
1 John 4:7-21 

Reflection
Where does the world not see God in you?
Where do you need to put more energy into living love?
Who should you just love? 

Prayer
Jesus, I’m aware of the times I don’t live out Your love, and how my way of life often fails to make God’s love tangible in the world. I want to do it more and more. Please help me to do it. Amen.