| The final liturgical weeks of Ordinary Time have us turning to reflect on the final things of life, most notably how we shall be judged. Pope St. John XXIII noted that on the final day we shall be judged in love. This not only reflected the optimistic view of the Holy Father, but was also a theological statement, for God is Love! The first reading today causes us to reflect on the very practical aspects of what that love looks like for us as human beings. Are we fair? Are we generous? Are we forgiving? Are we aware that God hears the voices of those who suffer, especially those who may suffer at the hands of other human beings? The Gospel continues by asking us if we love the Lord our God with our whole mind, heart, and strength, and our neighbor as ourselves? Perhaps our first thought about being judged at the end of all history in love brings us a sense of relief, as well it might. But then, the question will go further, “how have we loved our neighbors?” Call to action: Three great acts have traditionally been noted as hallmarks of the Christian life when we are repenting – that is, when we are turning our hearts and minds back to the Lord. They are emphasized more strongly in Lent but apply to the Christian life always. The first is prayer, the second is fasting, and the third is the giving of alms (gifts to the needy). Giving, whether to the Church, to the homeless and poor, or to one’s favorite charities is a hallmark of Christian discipleship. As we thank God for these fall months of harvest and prepare for a new year, let us ask our people (and ourselves) if we are indeed praying, fasting (not just from food), and giving our alms as the faith beckons us. Pastoral Action Points GiveCentral has an amazing set of GC Smart Tools available to help your church grow. Do you know how to use them? Just call or email us at GiveCentral and we will be happy to spend time with you making you a success! Are you doing a fall stewardship drive? Statistics are clear that the greatest amount of giving happens in the final quarter of the year in association with the holidays, and that people are planning their budgets for the new year already. Use your GC Smart Text and GC SmartQR codes to help your people make their gifts quickly, efficiently, and without the donor friction of apps, website logins, etc. Getting ready for Advent? GiveCentral has email templates you can adapt to your parish for free. Just look for them in your New Communications Portal. Stay up-to-date with news & information – follow us on social! Toll-free: 833.716.2612 | Email us at: support@givecentral.org |
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Last modified: August 11, 2024
