Giving and Receiving

It is in giving that we receive. It is in pardoning that we are pardoned. These words from the Prayer  of St Francis are said by Catholics throughout the world, for some on a daily basis. The words affect our lives in two ways. First, we ask to have our actions given back tous in an attempt to receive the same kindness, the same love, the same TLC that we as Christians should be offering to others. After all, who wouldn't want a little it of TLC every now and then. But it is also asking for judgement on ourselves. For if we do not offer ourselves to others, if there is no TLC, if there is no forgiveness, then we are asking for that same abandonment, that same judgement for ourselves.
   And God truly hears these prayers. My simple life experiences have shown this time and again. Those who have followed my blog remember the story of the job call in San Francisco right after making a donation to a good cause and a homeless person. It has proven itself to me again. While the job is still pending, I saw a student with no lunch because he had lost his wallet. Rather than send him to the office, I bought him lunch. He promised to repay me, but no matter, what's five dollars? What followed was the connection to tutor a young lady. Another source of extra income to ease our family. Budget. And how did I know God had a hand in all this? When I found out the young ladies first AND LAST name, I realized it was the same as my daughters. Again, no coincidence here. God is always working. And having given I received, in a small way.
   So what happens if we give in a big way? What happens if instead of a few dollars, or a onetime help, I concentrate on dedicating my life in some way to God? Priest? Deacon? Sister? Religious Life? Sunday School Teacher? Not for you? Well, how about sharer of God's word whenever I can? How about faithful attendee at the Supper of the Lamb? (You remember mass right?) did you know that a mass needs to be said with others present? That means there is a ministry in being a member of the congregation. A d as a preacher, I certainly am grateful for those mass attendees, because the larger the group, the greater the spirit works in me when I preach. I am not sure why that is, but I seem to feel the energy coming from a full church and it 'charges' my preaching. I know it is the Spirit, but that charge should always be there.
  So as we wind down this year's lent and ready ourselves for a fast approaching Holy Week, why not dedicate your life to God by committing to join Him for supper every Sunday. And I for one will say, welcome home and thanks for making me a better minister. And what will happen? You may give up an hour a week, but you will gain what God offers you in return. What will you receive? Ahhhh, the thing is, you need to give up first to find out!