“Dilexit Nos” reminds me of a profound truth: the deepest part of my being was made to “love and to be loved.” Our greatest fulfillment is found in this love, both in giving it and receiving it. When I live from a place of love, I begin to understand the true purpose of my existence.
The encyclical poses what it calls the most decisive question: “Do I have a heart?” To have a heart is to be able to love and be loved. To own my belovedness is to live in that truth. God’s love for us is the ultimate example of this, as John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
How are we actively living out our purpose to “love and to be loved”?
Today, perform a small act of love for someone else, whether it’s a kind word, a helping hand, or a listening ear.
Smitten With Goodness 