With all the political division and rivalry dividing our society these days, I do not think it is a bad thing that we observe Martin Luther King Day on Inauguration Day. As security forces step up their preparations to prevent violence in our city streets, it is a good time for all Christians to model Martin Luther King in praying and working for peace.
   In a world that no longer has God at its center, truth becomes whatever we want to make it be. When Jesus was our Truth, we strove to live according to His teachings in the gospel. In the giving you shall receive. In the laying down of your life, you will find life. Our culture does not promote a life lived according to the gospel.
   In the Christian mystery, it seems that tragic suffering is the key to finding the meaning of life. We see the outpouring of love and assistance offered to those suffering from the devastation of the wildfires. We hear of stories of people reaching out to assist those in desperate need. Care for others brings out the best in us. 
   This week begins a week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Not only is there division in our political, but it even enters into the religious sphere. Not only do we find it among the various Christians denominations, it is also a serious issue in our own Catholic faith tradition!
   As our church observes this Holy Year of Grace, we have a lot to pray for. May it inspire us to put Christ back at the center of our lives. May we spread his gospel of love and not division. Let us work together for unity and peace in our church and in our world.