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First Reading for the Optional Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Portugal

1 John 3:14-18

Summary: We know we belong to life when we love others. Real love is shown by what we do, not just by what we say.

Love Shown in Action

Beloved: We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers. Whoever does not love remains in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that anyone who is a murderer does not have eternal life remaining in him.

The way we came to know love was that he laid down his life for us; so we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If someone who has worldly means sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God remain in him? Children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth.

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