Today is the feast of St. Nicholas!
All three of today’s Scripture readings speak of
feasts — “a feast of rich food and fine wine”…”You spread the
table before me”…”They all ate and were satisfied…They picked up the
fragments left over…seven baskets full.”
These feasts are all provided by “the Lord of hosts for
all people” — our Shepherd, Jesus!
While each involves food, they include much more — “He
will destroy the veil that veils all people”…”He will destroy death
forever”…”the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all
faces”…”the reproach of His people He will
remove”…”Beside restful waters He leads me, He refreshes my
soul”…”He guides me in right paths”…”He cured them. The
crowds were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the deformed made whole,
the lame walking, and the blind able to see.”
Today’s Gospel hints that Jesus prefers to work His miracles
in and through His followers. He asks His disciples what they have, accepts
what they offer, gives thanks, breaks up the offerings, and has the disciples
distribute them.
Are not our roles as Catholic Charities workers similar to
those of the disciples?
It seems to me that if we are going to have something to offer,
then we too have to avail ourselves of the feasts God provides for us.
This Advent let Jesus lead you to restful waters, refresh
your soul, and guide you in right paths. Partake of the finest food and
choicest wine by receiving the Eucharist as often as possible. Be satisfied, and
not wasteful. Then “behold” how “the Lord comes to save His
people,” you and the people you serve!
Gwen Hall, LCSW, is a mental health counselor for the
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Lexington’s Prestonsburg, KY office and is
also the diocesan contact for Project Rachel and Rachel’s Vineyard.
2017 Advent Reflections
During the Advent season, CCUSA offers reflections on each day’s Mass readings. The reflections are authored by Catholic Charities employees and other social concerns ministers who have a connection to Catholic Charities. The reflections will arrive by email first thing each morning. Sign up here to receive them.
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