God Loves a Cheerful Giver

11-11-2018Weekly ReflectionFr. James Aboyi

Dear Parishioners,

Congratulations to our parish youth group for a very fruitful and uplifting retreat last weekend. Special thanks to David Rees, our Coordinator of Youth Ministry, the EPIC Core, parents, volunteers and all those who helped with the planning of the retreat. We are so blessed to have such a wonderful, vibrant youth ministry here in our parish.

Happy Veterans Day

I wish all veterans and their families a Happy Veterans' Day. Thank you for your service and the sacrifices you make, and have made, to keep us all safe. Let us remember to pray for the men and women who are in active military service, especially those in very dangerous assignments that God will protect them from harm.

Reflections on the Scripture Readings

The terms "widow" and "widower" are rarely used nowadays, as most people who suffer the loss of their husband or wife are commonly referred to as being "single." Losing ones' husband or wife is one of the most traumatic experiences one can have, being similar to losing "half of oneself." Several passages in the scripture emphasize the obligation of every Chris an to support widows and orphans since they are among the most vulnerable members of the community (Timothy 5:34; James 1:27; Deuteronomy 24:17-21; Exodus 22:22-23). The scripture readings during Mass this weekend focus on the plight and generosity of two outstanding widows.

In the first reading today, we heard of a poor widow who showed compassion by sharing her last meal with the prophet Elijah, and how God blessed her for her generosity. In the Gospel today, we heard a similar story about a poor widow who contributed her last savings to God in offertory. Jesus praised this widow for her generous heart and trust in God. The two widows challenge us to remember that no matter how poor we are, we can still give the little we have with full trust that God will continue to bless and provide for us.

We are invited today to examine the spirit from which we give, or render services, to God and our neighbors. We learned from the widows in the scriptures today that it is good to always give from our hearts for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor 9:7). I pray that God will continue to provide for you as you give generously to our parish community and your neighbors.

Thank you and Remain Blessed.
Fr. James