"God is not unjust so as to overlook the work and the love you have demonstrated..." - Hebrews 6:10
Years ago, in a diocese far, far away, I was involved with a number of dedicated lay people in preparing a large class of 8th and 9th graders for Confirmation. After the Confirmation Mass was over, the pastor thanked the Bishop and the visiting clergy for coming and invited them to the rectory where a lovely meal was awaiting them. Not a word was offered to the people who had prepared the reluctant students over the past months. As I sat open mouthed at the thoughtless overlooking of people who had worked so hard, one of the other teachers, seemingly reading my thoughts, winked at me and smiled, "God knows!" Indeed, she could have quoted today's first reading: "God will not overlook your work and the love you have demonstrated for his name by having served and continuing to serve the holy ones."
God knows. God understands. God considers all his children holy even when "holy" might not be the first adjective that comes to mind for those we serve, whether in a confirmation class, a soup kitchen, or our own kitchen. Perhaps we are called to be imitators of God and not overlook the work and love of others.
Is there someone whose work I might be overlooking, whom I might recognize with a "thank you" or a smile?
God, thank You for not overlooking me. Help me to see the good that others are doing in Your name. Amen.
Reflection by:
Sr. Cathy Cahill
Did you know...
Sister Cathy Cahill, OSF, is a Franciscan Sister of Allegany who has been ministering in the diocese since 1989, primarily in retreat work and spiritual direction, She is a member of the community at St. Clare Convent in Tampa.
