From the Pastor’s Desk: September 23, 2018

     We live in a world that brings us a challenge to be the greatest.  "We are the greatest, the mightiest, the strongest nation on earth," say the politicians. "I am the greatest of all time," says the boxer. "I am the boss, and you do what I say," says the manager. "I am stronger than you," says the schoolboy.  I do believe that we all have aspirations in life, goals to reach, challenges to embrace in order to grow. But it is only in the context of our faith that they make sense to fulfill the message of Christ that turns the worldly notion of greatness on its head: “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.”
 
     An incredible irony lies at the basis of Jesus’ teaching. We could even argue that such irony does not have time nor place in our lives anymore. And yet the power of the message of God, His Ever-living Word, may once again surprise us this Sunday and challenge us to a deeper reflection upon our own life. Is it truly an irony or is it the essence of my daily life? Is it some type of utopia or a very practical and concrete way to live the message of the Gospel?
 
     Most of us are able to see the beauty of humility and humble service to others. We can understand subconsciously why this marks a sense of greatness. But putting this idea into practice is not so easy. We are willing to commit "random acts of kindness" now and then, because they benefit us – they make us feel good. But real progress towards spiritual maturity requires a deeper commitment, perhaps among our closest relationships- those of our family, that our natural selfishness tends to come out most easily. Family, home, personal relationships is an excellent place to start to purify them and grow in the virtue of humility that leads into loving service. Humbly serving our spouse, our siblings, our parents - this is true Christ-like virtue, this is where we forge a Christ-like heart.
 
     Serving others when there is no reward or recognition involved is the best way to follow Christ's example and purify our hearts. If we gradually learn to think about others before ourselves, within the walls of our hearts, it will become second nature to do so outside those walls towards others. Such transformation leads to ultimate happiness and fulfillment in life since it is by serving others we reflect the main principle of the life of Jesus and rise to a new and great life. In serving others we follow the example of the greatest servant ever- Jesus Christ- and with deep desire we imitate His life in our own. We surrender our very selves to others- to everyone, especially those who are the “least” in our community, society, and nation. In the process, we let go of anything that gets in the way, that comes as an obstacle in reaching out to others only to discover our own wants and needs change. Gradually we learn and discover that the ultimate good in life is the simplest service we can offer– a gentle smile, tender touch, word of encouragement, kind gesture. Gradually we discover that in service we receive new life and experience the true meaning of greatness.  So, "What do you say?"
 
     This weekend, September 22-23, we are invited to express our support for The Help Spread the Faith Catholic Communications Appeal. Our generous participation and support makes it possible for the St. Augustine Catholic magazine to reach every Catholic home in our parish and diocese, latest development of digital on-line resources, as well as to assist evangelization efforts of the US bishops. In the call to service let us share our generosity and commitment.
 
     As Jesus renews His commitment to us as we come to celebrate the Eucharist, let's renew our commitment to Him, and ask the Lord to help us, starting today, to pursue greatness in the eyes of God.
 
Have a blessed week!
With prayers,
Fr. Andy