LIFE OF FAITH
When I only think
of myself, attract my attention to someone else.
In today's first
reading from Leviticus the Lord instructs the Israelites to be holy as the Lord
their God is holy. This criterion of holiness is then spelled out in some
detail. It is practical, concrete, and rooted in acts of justice and fairness
carried mutually among those of the community. The Israelites are to love their
neighbors as themselves. The Gospel depicts the final judgment scenario that
will accompany the coming Son of Man. In many ways it shares the same context
as the first reading today. It is the concrete exercise of the corporal works
of mercy. An added feature of this final judgment is that the corporal acts of
mercy are to be offered simply on the basis of need and nothing more. Whenever
we assist the very least of the people around us, we in effect, assist the Lord
as well.
Mother Teresa said
it well in her prayer that we entitle, "Life of Faith."
Lord:
When I am hungry, send me someone who needs food.
When I am thirsty, send me someone who needs a
drink.
When I am cold, send me someone to be warmed.
When I am distressed, send me someone to console.
When my cross is becoming heavy, send me someone with
whom to share His cross.
When I am poor, lead me to someone in need.
When I have no time left, send me someone whom I
might help for a few moments.
When I am humiliated, help me to find someone to
praise.
When I am discouraged, send me someone to
encourage.
When I need to be understood by others, send me
someone who needs my understanding.
When I need to be cared for, send me someone to
care for.
When I only think of myself, attract my attention to someone else.
In the responsorial
psalm we acclaim, "Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life" (Ps 19). He
gives wisdom to the simple and enlightens the eyes. For God is our rock and
redeemer. Amen!