TO SERVE IS A BLESSING

We live in a market driven economy. Jobs, wages, working conditions, and benefits fittingly concern many families. But this is not the whole story. Individual persons and families are more than production units and wage earners. Individual persons and families enjoy political citizenship. Everyone has a take and a share in shaping the common good of our society because everyone has God given talents and charisms. Have you thought about your talents and gifts? Have you decided how you might give back a little of what God has so generously given you?

The first contribution each person makes to church and society is the gift of one's being, one's existence. Catholic social teaching always starts out with the dignity of the human person. We are made in God's image. We are redeemed by the blood of the Lord poured out for us on the cross. No matter one's worldly status, everyone is a precious presence whose existence and life give glory to God.

The second contribution each person offers church and society is the gift of being present when we assemble every Sunday for the Lord's table sharing. This is when we are most the church. This is where we edify and build up one another as the body of Christ. This is where we craft networks of relationship and friendship based on mutual respect and love. If people are absent from this assembly, the body of Christ is diminished. That is why we remain vigorous in our ministries to people who are ill in hospital and home. The sick, though absent, still contribute and are precious members of church.

What gifts and talents we share depends on our self-esteem and vocation, time and life circumstances. Some people feel squeezed because of the obligations of personal, family, and work obligations. There seems to be little time available for voluntary service to others.

The issue is more quality and mentality than quantity and minutes. When each person searches one's heart, one asks questions such as what do I believe I can contribute to enrich others? What spirituality of service motivates my involvement with others? What blessing do I wish to offer as my legacy to the body of Christ and the public good?

Churches and synagogues thrive when generous people involve themselves and receive blessing in return. Those who regularly worship tend to be involved in direct service to others. They also give their time and talent to the mediating institutions which bridge persons and society. Many mediating institutions have lost credibility and need to be revitalized by people committed to virtue and integrity. Families, schools, religious communities, and the Knights of Columbus, shelters, food pantries, and soup kitchens are strong and well because people like you sacrifice some time and talent.

Our sanctuaries require only so many ministers to serve the assembly at the Lord's table. Our Churches and synagogues need many more ministers who contribute their talents to ministries of truth and reconciliation, learning and the arts, mercy and compassion, justice and charity. We need you so that we can dance the melody of service.