Throughout the Old Testament, we read stories about how self-absorption, hatred, and jealousy have destroyed the peace and unity of God’s people. The wisdom books like Sirach were the balance the faithful needed for the often-difficult challenges the Old Testament placed in people’s lives. God, who sees everything, is neither the cause nor the occasion of sin. We have the power to choose our behavior and are responsible for the good and the evil we do. In the Gospel reading today, Jesus presents the teachings of the Old Testament but now through the lens of love – the love that his mission on earth was all about. Keeping God’s law in particular situations can be extremely difficult, but it is never impossible. As with so many other things, the key lies in our relationship with God. Knowing his love, and experiencing it in our hearts, can help us put away the selfishness that is at the root of sin and division. Let us pray that God’s love might soften our hearts and melt away any self-centeredness or divisive thoughts that may direct our actions.