The story of the struggle and victory of Tobias over the power of the evil demon is a charming story to be sure - but also much more. Tobias was able to confront evil without fear because the angel Raphael was walking at his side to guide and protect him even though Tobias did not recognize him. At every moment of decision or danger, Tobias praised God fervently and placed his total trust in Him. In a sense, he walked through life surrounded by love, divine protection, and a sense of peaceful trust. If only we could have that faith! We will face many difficulties and challenges, but we are never alone and we always have more power and strength than we can imagine. Perhaps we can journey throughout our day with a greater sense of spiritual companions and guides at our side.

Christians did not invent love - when asked the question by the scribe, Jesus responds with two quotations - from Leviticus and Deuteronomy. Love links the Old and New Testaments and it forms the core of both Judaism and Christianity. Living and acting with love is the essence of all true religion and is far more important than rules and rituals. As St. Paul said so well - we can be absolutely correct in every aspect of our religion but if we are lacking in love then it is all for nothing. In our prayer each day we should ask Jesus to reveal to us how well we have loved that day. Love of God and love of neighbor must always go together - we can't have one without the other. Love is the standard by which we measure our spiritual progress in life.