February 2017
Gospel according to St. John (Jn 13:34-35)
Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience - bearing with one another and forgiving one another, I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another. This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Vincentian Reflection
Tonights Gospel is oft quoted and used. Yet for me, the punch line – the second verse – is frequently overlooked. Repeating it…
This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
Love one another, and be recognized.
Ok, we are doing just that here tonight, and I am eternally thankful for the opportunity this community presents. While not all of us participate in the rigours of phone duty, of meeting with “those we serve” and the especially delicate task of informing those declined for assistance, this is the work we’re here to facilitate.
And I know it can be difficult at times to work with some of our clients…or even those we see elsewhere. They can at times be, or at least appear to be so scheming, manipulative, so deceptive. And while dispensing funds to the thankful or kindness to a stranger conveys a sense of service accomplished, what inheritance is there in rejecting a plea for help?
Love. Every client, regardless of outcome in assistance provided should remember their exchange with us as having been loved. Even if we choose to not say the words, when we see our clients or even strangers, our heart should tell us to see them with loving eyes.
By giving them our love, we share the love of Christ with them and (hopefully) achieve the one goal we all share – to be recognized and known in heaven.
Welcome to 10 Angels 