Imitating Jesus in meekness and humility
The holiday season is a supposed to be a holy and joyful time. Yet we all have the habit of focusing on what events and parties to attend. That, coupled with the need to get the perfect gift for friends and family, can shift our focus. While these are fun aspects of the season, many times they end up being extra burdens on many of us. Working for Catholic Charities, this time of year also means increased needs for those we are privileged to serve. While this is a labor of love, it is still a labor.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that when we are consumed and stressed by worldly expectations, we can find rest and peace in Him. We should come to Jesus with our difficulties and rely on His help. Jesus is calling us to his way of life and not just his teaching. He is not simply telling us to accept His teachings; he is telling us to imitate him in two key ways: first in meekness, and second in humility.
As Catholic Charities staff, we can imitate Jesus when we help clients carry their burdens. Learning meekness and humility helps us to meet people where they are in their journey with true empathy. Jesus never says His burden is easy, but if we lean on Him, we can better maintain our joy-filled spirit, helping those we are blessed to serve and remembering that Jesus is the reason for the season.
Brian Smith is the Director of Disaster Services for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City.