Owe nothing to anyone, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law.
The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery; you shall not kill; you shall not steal; you shall not covet,” and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this saying, [namely] “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Love does no evil to the neighbor; hence, love is the fulfillment of the law. (Romans 13:8-10 NABRE)
When love directs the Christian’s moral decisions, the interest of law in basic concerns, such as familial relationships, sanctity of life, and security of property, is safeguarded. Love anticipates the purpose of public legislation, namely, to secure the best interests of the citizenry.*
It is said that love is not simply a feeling but a commitment. Today's verse tells us that love is also what motivates right. It precedes our daily choices. In practical terms, love requires us to put the needs and interests of others ahead of our own.
Today, I will pray for awareness of my own choices, so that I will put the needs and interests of others ahead of my own.
Saint Charles Borromeo, patron of catechists, catechumens, and seminarians, pray for us.
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