Twenty-Sixth Tuesday of Ordinary Time

Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem and to implore the favor of the LORD. Thus says the LORD of hosts: In those days ten men of every nationality, speaking different tongues, shall take hold, yes, take hold of every Jew by the edge of his garment and say, "Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you."

Our faith is one that embraces many cultures and races. We are open to welcoming anyone who is willing to profess our Creed and live according to the Word of God and the Traditions of the Church. Although many might accuse us of being unwelcoming or intolerant, this is not the case. We welcome all those who want to live the Christ-like life. We may not condone every lifestyle choice, but that doesn’t mean we condemn those who sin. Jesus didn’t condemn sinners, he loved them, cared for them, and did good things for them. All in the hope that they would see the truth of his words and sincerity of his actions and come to accept his Way, Truth, and Life. Similarly, we are called to greet sinners with open arms and hearts and be willing to treat them as Jesus did... with generosity and kindness.

Do we embrace the cultures and races around us? Do we love our neighbors even when they are living in sin? How can we learn to love those whom we do not agree with or find difficult to like?

O Lord, make us into one, united, welcoming people.

Amen.