For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you. Luke 6:38
The ancient Christian hermits, whose austerity, holiness and solitude eventually led to the establishment of monasteries, had a spiritual habit of meditating on the Word of God for hours, days, even weeks. Their physical fasting gave them even more of an appetite to nourish themselves on Scripture, memorizing and savoring every morsel. Today’s Gospel would be a rich feast indeed!
Any serious disciple of Jesus must grapple with these words. His command to love our enemies is not an abstraction but implies real conversion of heart. Dorothy Day famously said, “I really only love God as much as I love the person I love the least.” If we want to immerse ourselves in the depths of God’s mercy—to be called children of God—we must extend the same mercy to others.
As you consider what you will pack for your upcoming Lenten journey, make room for this passage from Luke 6 to sustain you on the way.
Steve Pable
Originally published February 20, 2022
