For you were called for freedom, brothers. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love.
For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
But if you go on biting and devouring one another, beware that you are not consumed by one another. (Galatians 5:13-15 NABRE)
I admit it. I am frequently bothered by the phrase, you deserve it, even more annoyed by the phrase, I deserve it. It is a popular marketing myth used to sell products which has somehow pervaded our culture. It is an idea which has been thrust into the value system of too many people as a foundational truth despite it's misleading message.
It goes directly to the core of our "me" society and it reinforces our inclination to place ourselves first, before God and before others. The idea that I deserve something, while not entirely untrue, makes it acceptable and even palatable to set ourselves up as our own idols.
But, as Saint Paul points out in today's passage, the freedom which Christ provides us with is not intended to be an opportunity to indulge ourselves or to tear down others. No. Our freedom gives us the option to choose to express our love for one another through service. We are free to sacrifice on behalf of those who do not have all that we have. We have the opportunity to love our neighbors as much and in the same manner as we love ourselves, and to provide for them as we provide for ourselves.
May we never lose sight of what we truly deserve, or of the sacrifice Jesus made so that we would not have to face divine justice, but rather be embraced by divine mercy.
Today, I will remember that the freedom I've been given by Jesus is to serve others with love.
Blessed Raymond Lull, who worked most of your life to help spread the gospel, pray for us.
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