Love the Poor
What do you do when you encounter someone who’s begging for help? How about when a panhandler directly asks you for money? I often wonder what to do.
Jesus said that we’ll always have the poor among us (Mt 26:11 and Mk 14:7). I fear that comment sometimes misleads people into thinking we need not do anything on behalf of the poor. That seems a pretty selective reading of Scripture. After all, Jesus goes on to say (in Mark) that “Whenever you wish you can do good to them . . .”
One of the many things I appreciate about our St. Matt’s community is that we visibly express our wish to do good for the poor. Ministries such as Loaves & Fishes, Casa Guadalupana, and St. Mary’s Health Clinic come immediately to mind.
We have other examples where members of our community help the poor: with food (Neighborhood House’s food shelf); clothing and gifts (Isaac’s Blessing Bags); and with every interaction when we treat everyone with kindness. I’m reminded of Mother Theresa’s line, “Whoever the poorest of the poor are, they are Christ for us. Jesus under the guise of human suffering.”
I’m also glad that we support the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) each year. Flyers were in last week’s bulletin and are available on the back table, along with dedicated giving envelopes. You may still contribute, if you wish.
I wish to help the poor. I do give food and money as an individual. But I’m only one person.
Which is why it’s good to do good together. I encourage everyone to connect with other do-gooders, whether in our parish, through the CCHD, or other groups.
This is a time of year when the flow of requests for contributions becomes a flood. Give what you can, in terms of your time, talent and treasure.
I’m grateful for your support. Happy Thanksgiving and have a great week!
Phil Grant, Administrator
Safe Environment Coordinator
651-224-9793
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