The Gospel according to Matthew 11:25-27
At that time Jesus exclaimed: “I give praise to you, Father, Lord of Heaven, and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.”
Reflection: Deacon George and I are Board members, of The Saint Francis Center of Long Beach; a non-profit organization that helps those experiencing homelessness and who are under insured and living below the poverty line in the Long Beach and surrounding areas.
We are currently in the process of rebuilding the original structure through donations and grants so that we can reopen the Center and begin serving our community once again. Since we are always looking for ways to help our local community, we have been utilizing our home parish, St. Matthew in Long Beach as a venue for events. Last weekend, we had our first no cost Health Care Clinic for our community. One of our board members is a pharmacist and organized through a group of healthcare professionals to offer the following at no cost: Dental service, Covid vaccinations, Eye exams with glasses made on-site.
We were able to offer screenings and education on diabetes, stroke prevention as well as general health education with physicians available for Q&A’s. In one day, we were able to help 200 individuals and families from within our community who cannot afford these basic human needs and were able to connect them with resources to help them even further.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us that the Father has handed over to Him, and Jesus has revealed this gracious will over to us. Those who can afford healthcare tend to forget about those, out on the streets that deal with suffering and pain daily with NO help in site.
We don’t need to be a priest, a deacon, or any member of clergy to reveal this to our brother and sisters in Christ, however we must find a way to make a change in people’s life, to show them, and to remind ourselves of each person’s roll as children of God. Even if it’s as simple as offering someone in need a sack lunch or human kindness and the dignity of recognition.
Action of the Day: There are many organizations in all our communities wherever you live that offer services to those less fortunate. Find One! And offer both your gifts and services to help our brothers and sisters who need us the most.
Audio Reflection:
DEACON5 