We Can't Remain Passive
Let us love, not with words but with deeds. – 1
John 3:18
First World Day of the Poor
On Sunday, November 19, 2017 Pope Francis launched the first
World Day of the Poor reminding us the ‘no Christ may disregard’ serving the
poor.
"If we want to help change history, we need to
hear the cry of the poor and commit ourselves to ending their marginalization.
We cannot remain passive. Blessed are the hands that reach beyond every barrier
of culture, religion, and nationality, and pour the balm of consolation over
the wounds of humanity. Blessed are the open hands that ask nothing in
exchange, with no “ifs” or “buts” or “maybes”: they are hands that call down
God’s blessing upon their brothers and sisters.
This new World Day should
become a powerful appeal to our consciences as believers, allowing us to grow
in the conviction that sharing with the poor enables us to understand the
deepest truth of the Gospel. The poor are not a problem: they are a
resource from which to draw as we strive to accept and practice in our lives
the essence of the Gospel.”
During this Harvest Season and the call to ‘Give
Thanks’ let us ask ourselves who are the poor in our midst. How do we serve them? How is the face of the poor visible to
us? How do we proclaim this Gospel
directive as Disciples of Jesus today?
Let us love, not with words but
with deeds
For the full text of
the Pope’s message go to:
Good and gracious God, we come before you today united with all who give You thanks and praise. Fill us with Gratitude for Your many
blessings.
