Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
This weekend is the kickoff for the Annual Catholic Appeal. And while it is an important way for all of us to support the work and efforts of the Diocese and needs to be supported, it also takes the place of the homily at the weekend Masses. As such, allow me to provide at least a brief reflection on the readings this week to help bridge the gap.
There is something quite interesting going on in our first reading from the prophet Isaiah. We are first presented with a series of good works, ordinary actions that many of us would do without necessarily giving it much thought. “Share your bread with the hungry, shelter the oppressed and the homeless; clothe the naked…” In some ways, these are no-brainers in terms of being charitable to those in need. Although the occasion to put such things into action may not come every day, we recognize the goodness that is found in carrying such things out. All the same, it’s a good reminder of what we are called to do for those in need.
But then the next section of the passage explains what happens to us if we follow through on those charitable acts. Light shall break forth like the dawn, your wounds shall quickly heal, vindication will go before you and the glory of the Lord will guard you. And in this, we are presented on odd set of actions and consequences. In essence, if we help those in need, then we’ll have the power of God on our side? At first glance it might seem like a bit of a stretch.
And if this were the only place where such a theme were presented throughout the Bible, it would be easy to write it off. But in both the Old and New Testament, similar ideas are presented. Almsgiving covers a multitude of sins (Tobit & 1 Peter). Do not mistreat a foreigner (Exodus). Whatever you do for the least of your brothers, you do for me. (Matthew). Over and over, the idea of practical charity or good works giving way to spiritual benefit is presented to us. And it is consistent in our understanding of the spiritual life as well.
Borrowing from the wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila, growth in prayer MUST be accompanied by growth in charity. The two are so entwined that one cannot be without the other. And so, if you feel like your prayer life is at a bit of a plateau at the moment and you’d like to go a bit deeper, consider how it is you might be of service to someone around you. And if your prayer life is in a good place, perhaps ask what the Lord is inviting you to in terms of greater service. Because one feeds the other, and we’re at our best in our faith when charity and prayer are both strong!
Peace and Goodness,
Fr. Dan
Recent Comments