AMID the darkness brought by the problems of the world, Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle is calling on the faithful to make love a lifestyle instead being a mere word or single act.
In his Easter Message, Tagle urged the people to follow the action of the Risen Christ by spreading the light of love to others.
“We invite you to seize the power of love unleashed by the Risen Christ this Easter, and with the love you have received, spread seeds of hope across the country,” said Tagle.
“Love is not just a word. It’s a lifestyle of seeing, encountering, and understanding other people. It is the lifestyle of Jesus, the crucified and risen. It is the lifestyle of being with and living for others in the belief that light will always overcome darkness,” he furthered.
He said such acts of love are necessary amid the darkness brought about by hunger, unemployment, addictions, indignities, abuse, hate speeches, false accusations, killing, corruption and human trafficking.
“It can make all the difference in the world in ways we can’t even imagine how because these small acts of care and love are crowned by the total self-giving of Christ crucified on the cross,” said Tagle.
In doing so, the Cardinal said people must learn to empty themselves from judgments and pretensions of the problems of others.
Instead, he said one must learn to employ deep compassion, solidarity, and understanding of others, especially the poor.
“It is through these encounters that are hearts are opened and presented with a new horizon and a renewed energy to move forward,” said the prelate.
“It is through these encounters of love and caring that persons, families, and communities are transformed from prisoners of despair into bearers of hope,” added Tagle.
On April 21, the Catholic faithful celebrates Easter Sunday, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus from the dead.
Easter Sunday is considered as the most important Christian festival, and the one celebrated with the greatest joy. (HDT/ SunStar Philippines)