By Melanie Baker Trimarco

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.  By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” ~ John 13:34-35

Isn’t It Ironic

Each time I select a date to contribute as a blogger, I select a date near a meaningful date related to my deceased husband, Mark. How many times have you said, “It’s a sign?”

I kid you not.

Each time, the reading or the gospel is a meaningful connection to Mark.  His birthday is May 19. I recited his birth date so often as we visited multiple doctors and medical facilities that when I was asked for my own birthday at a medical appointment, I would blurt his out.

You see, He is always walking alongside us.

Even as I went through the valleys of my grief, I always knew I was loved by Him. The love throughout mending my invisible wounds of grief has allowed me to take comfort in knowing that there is so much more waiting for us. Our journey to Heaven is complicated – yet it does not need to be. Love for ourselves and one another must be at the heart of our daily life, actions, and words.  For perspective, Jesus loved us so much He gave His life for us, how hard can it be to love?

Presently, I help care for my mom who has dementia. To love someone when they are not one sliver of the person you grew up to love can be difficult.  I know mom is unaware, and I aim to only see her through the lens of love.

Loving her as Jesus loved her.

Prayer

Lord, let us love one another as Jesus loves us, despite our imperfections.

Call to Action

Take some time to reflect upon how very loved you are by Jesus. How are you showing up for yourself and others? Make a concentrated effort to pray, go to adoration, fast, or say the rosary to be like Jesus with ourselves and one another….. despite our differences and shortcomings.

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