Jesus told His disciples, “I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you”, John 13:34. It sounds simple yet, it is not that easy. Let love be the guiding virtue in all we do: Correcting others with fraternal charity, welcoming with expected hospitality, kindliness in discussion about others, being considerate towards one another. As St. Therese of Lisieux would say: Miss no single opportunity of making some small sacrifice, by a smiling look, thereby a kindly word; always doing the smallest right and doing it all for love.” Love and be good examples. Become the seeds that will blossom into a vibrant future for Christian life on our continent. We are Christians and meant to stand apart from the world. As Christians we are taught to be the light of the world.
Therefore, as Christians, we should strive to follow the examples of Christ. You must be embodiments of Christ’s goodness, forgiveness and love towards everyone. Let our lives mirror the famous prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, who urges us to be instruments of peace, sow love, where there is hatred, pardon, where there is injury; faith, where there is doubt; hope, where there is despair; light where there is darkness; joy, where there is sadness.” We should act what we preach. Our actions should become an authentic proclamation of the Gospel, inviting others to walk the path of holiness. You must ensure that you do not lose sight of the one who called you.
• Most. Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins, Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos.
