Yet when we consider the world God created, it becomes evident He does things on an extravagant scale. Scientists used to look at the immensity of the universe and speculate there must be other planets where intelligent life developed. But now some are saying the precise conditions are so fine tuned, the odds against the possibility are great.* If that is true, the billions of galaxies would be a magnificent window dressing which only we, the angels and God himself could appreciate.

Such extravagance fits what we ourselves experience: Love moves people to do things which outsiders consider crazy, even scandalous. I think of a very humble man in Peru who scrimped - and then went into debt - so he could buy his daughter a beautiful wedding dress. She could have married in a simpler garment and would have been just as pretty, but that is not the way love thinks. So it is with God.

During Holy Week we see the extent of God's love. If we had only the created world as evidence, it would be possible to think: easy for Him. But no one can look at Jesus on the cross and say the same. I invite you to participate deeply in these mysteries, especially during the Triduum: Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil. Experience the extravagance of God's personal love for you - and ask him in what way you are to pour yourself out in response to such grace.

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