Our reality is filled with unequal power relationships. For example, children are under the authority of their parents, subordinates under their superiors', employees under their employers' etc. And ultimately, we are under God. We carry out the Will of God. We are the Creator's creatures. We are definitely under the authority and power of God. But this God of ours is a loving God who is unlike worldly superiors who may mistreat those under them.

Therefore, it is right and just that we respond in a way fitting for those loved by God. We love God because God loves us first. As St Paul says today, "Do it for the sake of the Lord and not for the sake of men." We believe and trust in God for God's own sake and not for the sake of the people around us. We don't need to go around loving God to please others.

It may not be easy to love God when things are not going our way. However, Jesus encourages us in the Gospel, "Try your best to enter by the narrow door." We all must persevere in following and loving God despite the trials and tribulations of life. And do not slack in doing this. Otherwise, we may find ourselves knocking on the door, saying, "Lord, open to us", but He will answer, "I do not know where you come from."