The phrase, "ordo amoris" (order of love) has been introduced to our contemporary culture recently. As we celebrated Valentine's Day last week, I thought it important to look at that phrase by Augustine (modified by Thomas Aquinas). We are to love the Lord and our neighbor, as Jesus commanded (Matthew 22:37-39). In answer to the question about "neighbor," Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10). Our neighbor is anyone in need; so our love is to extend to all who need, whether physically close or those in distant lands. The idea of an "order of love" which limits love locally is contrary to God's love for the world (John 3:16). May God's love flow through you to any and all who are in need.
