A Liturgy of Love

Written By Rick Shafer

As the world tries to deal with the COVID-19 coronavirus, I’m reminded of this liturgy of love. Love (agape) is a willful love. It’s charitable love—caritas. This is the love Jesus calls us to practice when we’re commanded to:

  • Love ourselves

  • Love one another

  • Love our neighbor

  • Love our enemies.

Agape love is the way of God’s kingdom.

What is this liturgy I am reminded of?

It’s the spiritual practice of washing our hands.

Whenever we wash our hands to rid them of bacteria and viruses, we are participating in an act of love that resists the spread of illness, even death. It can have a multiplying effect that saves family, friend, and foe alike.

So, when you wash your hands, see this time as a liturgy of love. And pray an extended prayer as you wash for an extended time. In this sacred act, you will be giving a gift of love to the whole world.

Rick Shafer

Christian faith formation at Port City Community Church. Author. Husband, dad, and grandpa.

https://linktr.ee/rickshafer
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