Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop
Readings: Phil 2:1-4; Ps 131:1bcde, 2, 3; Lk 14:12-14
Summary
There are many calls for unity these days. Some by identifying an enemy. Others by lifting up those with less. True unity is described by Saint Paul differently.
In our first reading today, Saint Paul reflects on what brings JOY: UNITY. That is, being of the same mind informed and moved by the same love. If we have the courage of Christ (encouraged by Christ) we should be able to achieve JOY.
Unity
- Love brings solace (comfort in distress).
- Spirit brings participation (inclusion of everyone).
- Compassion and Mercy brings Chesed (loving-kindness).
Paul says, comfort, inclusion and loving-kindness bring unity. Joy is it’s reward.
These are distinctly contrasted to the acts that are selfishly motivated or the products of vainglory. Many would say if we sum up our self-motives and acts of vainglory together, we can have unity. This is a false hope and doomed to failure. Unity is inclusive of the needs of others not an expression of our wants.
In our gospel portion today, Jesus says the same thing. When you hold a lunch or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or sisters or your relatives or your wealthy neighbors, in case they may invite you back and you have repayment. Rather, when you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.
Our motivation is our reward.
Reflection
Borrowing from the Babylonian Talmud, “The reward for charity depends entirely upon the extent of the kindness in it.” Charity based on a exchange has a very low spiritual value. Charity based upon need and with no expectation of return is to be encouraged. Remember to be encouraged is to be given the strength to have courage to do the right thing.
Personal Reflection
I vow to do a examination of conscience that considers acts of kindness by the measures of unity, joy, selfishness and vainglory. The rewards of the righteous are profoundly better than anything I can make for myself.
Sacred Readings of the day
Full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110424.cfm
First Reading
Brothers and sisters: If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing.
Responsorial
In you, O Lord, I have found my peace.
Gospel Acclamation (see Jn 8:31b-32)
If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, says the Lord.
Gospel
Jesus said,
Rather, when you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry