Commentary on the Gospel of
Each of us – clergy, religious, or lay, married or single, young or old – is called to be holy because God, in whose image we are made, is holy. But what does it mean to be holy? What does a holy life look like?
Today’s readings teach us that holiness is not so much a state of being as it is a state of doing. God has made us to be holy. He gives us his grace to aid us on the path that leads us to that holiness, but we must choose and act in accord with God’s will. Only we can decide to treat our neighbors with justice, compassion, and fairness. We can reach out to those in need, offering food, drink, shelter, clothing, and the gift of our presence. We can offer mercy and forgiveness when we have been hurt. Such actions are not simply steps on the path to holiness. By loving and serving our neighbors wholeheartedly, we love and serve the God who is the source of all holiness.
