Our gifts for His Service
Saturday 1st August 2020
Jesus did not feed the stranded crowd at the edge of the Sea of Galilee all on His own. He accomplished it with the help of His disciples who were reluctant to accept responsibility for the hungry people. Challenged by Jesus to use their own resources, they remembered having five loaves and two fishes which they brought to Him. The little they had when placed in the hands of Jesus turned out to be more than enough for all. In our own eyes it may seem of little account but it is what the Lord has given us and expects us to use in his service.
It may be our ability to be a good neighbour, a caring listener, or a willing member of our community. In whatever way we minister to the needs of others, we show the compassion of Christ and extend his friendship. We are reminded that when we gather around the altar, we make an offering of self and accept the challenge of Jesus to do what we can for the food of others. He receives our gifts in the same manner as He accepted the five loaves and two fishes from the disciples, and gives them value. The Lord sends us forth to give as we have received, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to love as we have been loved.
Stay well and safe!
Fr. Arsenio