Humility and generosity, with a low-key kindness
“…Jesus warned them sternly, ‘See that no one knows about this’ ….”
The miracle stories of the New Testament are filled with requests by Jesus to keep the healings under wraps. In many cases, the beneficiaries disregard Jesus’ request. There are many theories to explain this “Messianic secret” — perhaps Jesus’ desire to not associate his divinity with miracles but rather with his teaching (“the kingdom of God is at hand”) is one reason that he wanted his beneficiaries to remain quiet.
Today is also an Optional Memorial for St. Nicholas. This fourth century bishop of Myra (modern day southwest Turkey) is remembered for discreetly throwing three bags of gold through a window to provide a dowry so a father would not have to sell his daughters into prostitution. This legend of Nicholas also demonstrates a low-key kindness of which Jesus would approve.
The requested form of response by Jesus and the humility of Nicholas resonates with the style of generosity promoted by Catholic Charities and our other social ministries. We don’t serve for public accolades, but rather to build kinship with others, particularly those who are most marginalized in our communities. As Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 6: 3-4), “But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your almsgiving might be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
Steve Herro is a religious brother of St. Norbert Abbey (De Pere, Wisc.). A past diocesan social action director and Catholic Charities USA staff member, he currently serves the Church as a diocesan archivist, trained spiritual director, and freelance writer.