Picture source:St.Agnes,RC Church,Amsterdam
Dear Fathers, Brothers, Sisters in Christ
Romans 11:29-36
Psalm 69:30-31, 33-34, 36
Luke 14:12-14
Psalm 69:30-31, 33-34, 36
Luke 14:12-14
There is a common expression used when we do someone a favor: "You owe me one!" It is usually said in a light-hearted way, but it does send a message. In the gospel, today, Christ has us look at our attitudes about this expectation for repayment. As the gospel
reads, He urges us to invite persons to our meals who have no means of ever repaying us.
The message challenges us to go out of our usual routines and look at ways we can be helpful to others without the expectation of repayment. It doesn't necessarily have to be a costly measure for us, either.
As an example, one of our local stores provides shopping carts, but you have to put a dollar in a slot to take it. You get your dollar back when you return the cart. Many people in our area just pass their cart onto the next person as they leave the store. It is a small
gesture, but it makes everyone happy. Regarding meals, there is always more help needed in "soup kitchens" and "food
pantries" for the homeless. The services they provide are expanding rapidly with our tight economy. It isn't just the food you provide, but the message that you are there for them as a caring person.
The message for today is a challenging one! How can I better serve those in need?
Father Ed Bakker,
Anglican Catholic Church/Original Province
Mission of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne
Bendigo
Australia
Anglican Catholic Church/Original Province
Mission of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne
Bendigo
Australia