Do you remember a time in your life when you felt greatly loved? I was about eight years old and my dad was taking me out on our first Daddy-Daughter Date Night. I had a new haircut to match my new dress. He bought me a corsage and dozen red roses. We went to dinner and had fun going to the theater to see Dennis the Menace. That day, I felt that I was so special to my dad and it's a sweet memory I cherish to this day.
Saint John the Apostle was known as 'the Beloved,' the disciple whom Jesus loved. I often wonder if the other Apostles ever felt uncomfortable with this unique title for Saint John, or maybe even a bit jealous. I know I would have.
But what would happen if you inserted your own name here? ________, the Beloved, a disciple whom Jesus loved. Can you relate to that? Do you even believe that? Is there something holding you back?
There are plenty of voices trying to tell us we are not loved, perhaps even your own. But this is the only way Jesus looks at you, the one whom He deeply loves. All those other words you may identify with: shameful, lonely, unloveable. . . . . . Jesus still loves us and helps us repent and grow in our love of Him."
You are cherished and treasured by a God who created this world for you to love and grow in it.
Beloved, one who is greatly loved.
It is how He looks at you.
Scroll through this passage from the Catechism of the Catholic Church on God's nature, especially section 221.
Patty Breen is a full-time lay minister who finds joy in running, strong cups of coffee, and all things Ignatian spirituality. A Midwest gal from the mitten state, she is constantly learning to find grace in all things. She is passionate about ministry to divorced Catholic and women whose relationships have been impacted by sexual addiction. Find out more about her here.
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