Of course one could hear this in a number of different ways. I suppose I could have answered with “thank you very much,” or entered into some sort of theological discussion about it all. But when it comes to being loved, somehow theological discussions don’t seem to cut it.

I couldn’t help but think that something very precious was lacking in his outlook, and I was deeply saddened. My gut reaction was: “Please do not make of me an object of your love for Jesus.”

Of course, it is likely that I misinterpreted his intentions and misunderstood what he was trying to say.

Nonetheless, making someone into an object of our love for God is not something impossible to do. And it is likely not much better than making an object out of a person for any other reason. Something very sad indeed.

I heard it said that here at the Marian Centre, we give people an opportunity to touch the poor and that that is a good thing to do! I must admit that I struggle with this as well, possibly for the same reasons.

I would not like to be a poor person going somewhere to give someone else a chance to touch me or serve me in order that he or she might get something out of it, out of me. Even if that something were noble feelings or a broadening of horizons or of the heart, or even perhaps conversion of heart—or worst of all—a good conscience.

I would feel like someone was taking advantage of my situation for their own “noble” gain. I simply want to be seen and treated as… well… me!

You can read the rest here.