Going above and beyond . . . This is what Jesus asks of those who choose to follow him. We are called to transcend mere human thinking and to examine life with the eyes and the heart of God. We proclaim a message of love that is unconditional rooted in the depths of our faith. And so, we are called to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. We are called to turn the other cheek instead of seeking revenge or holding grudges. WE are called to have a sacred heart.
 
In a world of social media that rushes to judgment and condemnation, we are called to rise above it all. Our discipleship is rooted in service not in throwing stones or in insulting each other. We spend so much time in judgment and condemnation, time that would be better spent in prayer for those whom we are quick to judge. Judgment belongs to the Lord who will take care of it in the final judgment at the end of time. It is His task, not ours.
 
The hallmark of Christianity is our willingness and ability to forgive just as Jesus did and still does. How can we ask to be forgiven if we refuse to forgive? As lyricist John Caird wrote in the musical “Jane Eyre”, “Forgiveness is the mightiest sword, it is your highest reward. You must be brave enough to love.” We must never lose our sacred heart or our sacred faith, but we must, like Jesus, be brave enough to love. It is truly a challenge but truly good news and a source of redemption.