Leading with Love: Putting God First to Heal a Divided Nation

Today, on the second day of our novena, we focus on love—a love that transcends division, fear, and indifference. In a time when our country feels fractured, we turn to the Lord, asking him to fill our hearts with the love that only he can give. As we reflect on his commandment to “love one another as I have loved you,” we are reminded of the transformative power of love to bring healing, understanding, and unity.

The Greatest of These Is Love

In 1 Corinthians 13:13, St. Paul declares, “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” This isn’t sentimental love but self-giving, sacrificial, and boundless. This is the love that God models for us, a love that meets us in our brokenness and calls us to see His image in others, especially those who are different from us.

Love is the foundation for every other virtue. Without it, our actions lose their purpose. Today’s prayer challenges us to examine how we embody this love in our relationships and communities and approach national unity.

A Call to Lead with Love

As we pray for our leaders, we ask God to guide them to act with love, compassion, and care for the vulnerable. Leadership rooted in love prioritizes the well-being of others over self-interest. It seeks justice, offers mercy, and strives to unite rather than divide.

Yet, this call applies to leaders and citizens alike. What if we approached every interaction with the same love we ask of God? How would that change our conversations, communities, and nation?

Reflection Questions

1. How can you show love to someone difficult to love?

2. Where in your life can love replace judgment or resentment?

3. How can love guide your actions toward building a more just and compassionate community?

Action for Today

Find one person or group with whom you can practice selfless love. This might mean reaching out to someone in need, offering forgiveness, or listening to someone with an open heart. Let today’s love ripple outward, one act at a time.

As we continue this novena, remember that love is not just a feeling but a decision and a way of life. When we choose to love as God loves us, we become agents of transformation for ourselves and the world around us.

🙏 Lord, fill my heart with your love. Teach me to love selflessly, to seek understanding over division, and to care for all, especially the vulnerable. Amen.