November 22

by David Lins  |  11/22/2020  |  (Being) Catholic Matters

It’s that time of year again. Many of us are beginning to rack our brains in an effort to come up with good gift ideas for our loved ones. We hope the gifts effectively communicate our love. We hope that the gifts are instantly cherished. We hope they are put to use.

As the father of a little toddler, I can tell when she loves a gift because she immediately starts using it—be it playing with a toy, coloring in a book, or putting on a dress. And when it is put to use, it honors me, the giver of the gift.

Many of us have been richly blessed with many gifts. And I used this analogy years ago, but it is worth repeating now that I have a three year old…

When Georgiana is playing with a friend, I’ve noticed her obvious joy when she is sharing her toys freely. There are giggles and smiles all over the place. But when she is in rough patch (usually due to exhaustion or hunger) and she is trying to hoard everything, her beautiful disposition is masked under a scowl.

This doesn’t only work for toddlers. It is a highprobability indicator until death (and quite possibly beyond).

Please take a moment to reflect on this reality. The old miser is never happy. Think of Mr. Potter in “It’s A Wonderful Life,” Ebenezer Scrooge, or even Mr. Burns. These are not happy people.

On the other side of the coin, reflect on how you’ve felt when you were generous with your time, talent, or treasure. I submit that joy comes from helping another AND pleasing the Lord, even if you don’t realize it.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus puts it plainly, “Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.” What gifts do you have to share?

Questions? Comments? Email David at dlins@oloj.org.

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