It is difficult to speak meaningfully about love, which is the overwhelming theme of today's readings. It is a word that we throw out as Christians and it is a word that pervades the pop songs that are churned out year after year. "Where is love?" asked Oliver Twist in the musical version of Dickens' book.

The love spoken of in today's readings is not primarily romantic or sexual love. Agape, John's word for love, is that outpouring of compassion and concern which comes, first, from God and was so fully illustrated in the life of Jesus. It is extended to every single person without exception. And it is to be part of our lives, too; "Love one another as I have loved you."

What makes this love special, and also difficult at times, is that it is totally unconditional. It does not depend on a reciprocal response, which we do expect in a sexual or romantic relationship. It is the love which reached out to the outsider, the pagan Cornelius, calling him to share in God's life and to be filled with His Spirit. Perhaps there will be someone who will come into my life today to whom, in the spirit of agape, the same call to love can be offered by me.