"The Eyes of Love"

This Advent season, we are reminded that love transcends mere sentimentality; it is an active choice and a way of perceiving the world. The scriptures today call us to love with open eyes, to notice the needs of others, and to recognize God's presence in unexpected places. Simeon, in Luke's Gospel, exemplifies this as he holds baby Jesus and declares, "My eyes have seen your salvation." His love for God enables him to see beyond the surface, recognizing the Messiah in a vulnerable child. Similarly, Jesus, in Matthew's account, is moved by compassion as he sees the crowds as harassed and helpless, prompting him to act and heal.

In today's world, love manifests in various forms, as seen in figures like Princess Diana, who showed compassion without hesitation. Her actions remind us that love involves stepping out of our comfort zones to embrace those different from us. This Advent, we are called to reflect on how we can embody such love in our lives. It is crucial to foster an environment where differences are embraced, and love is extended to all, regardless of theological or social divides.

The story of Maribel in Disney's "Encanto" further illustrates this point. Despite lacking a special gift, Maribel's love and courage bring her family together, highlighting the importance of seeing people for who they are, not what they lack. This narrative challenges us to look deeper, to heal divisions, and to restore hope in those who feel unseen.

As we journey through Advent, let us reflect on the essence of love, which transcends emotions and empowers us to see the world through God's compassionate eyes. Let us recognize each individual as a cherished creation, deserving of kindness and understanding. This understanding should guide our actions, as we strive to embody Jesus' compassion and Simeon's vision.

Who in your life is yearning for love and understanding? Perhaps it's a colleague, a family member, or a stranger you pass by daily. Let us take inspiration from Simeon and Jesus, opening our eyes to the miraculous ways God's salvation manifests in unexpected corners of our lives. This Advent season, let us proclaim love like Simeon, live love like Jesus, and share love like Maribel in "Encanto," seeing the unseen, healing the broken, and reminding everyone, including ourselves, that we are deeply and unconditionally loved.

Key Takeaways
- Love is an active choice and a way of seeing the world, as demonstrated by Simeon and Jesus, who recognized God's presence in unexpected places and responded with compassion. [00:48]

- True love involves stepping out of our comfort zones to embrace those different from us, as exemplified by figures like Princess Diana, who showed compassion without hesitation. [02:38]

- The story of Maribel in "Encanto" teaches us to see people for who they are, not what they lack, challenging us to heal divisions and restore hope in those who feel unseen. [18:00]

- As we journey through Advent, we are called to reflect on the essence of love, which transcends emotions and empowers us to see the world through God's compassionate eyes. [20:31]

- Let us take inspiration from Simeon and Jesus, opening our eyes to the miraculous ways God's salvation manifests in unexpected corners of our lives, and embodying their compassion in our actions. [21:23]

YouTube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:48] - Simeon's Vision of Love
[01:29] - Jesus' Compassionate Ministry
[02:38] - Modern Examples of Love
[04:02] - The Importance of Giving
[05:46] - Unity in Diversity
[06:37] - Overcoming Division
[07:31] - Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
[09:01] - Embracing Growth and Change
[10:43] - Personal Growth and Community
[12:35] - The Power of Community Love
[13:47] - Planting Seeds of Faith
[15:03] - The Role of Love in Church
[17:04] - Lessons from "Encanto"
[18:56] - Embracing Differences with Love
[20:31] - Reflecting on Love and Understanding
[21:23] - Living with the Eyes of Love