Weight of Actions

Today is the feast day of St. John Neumann, who was recognized for his works of charity and pastoral service. As a witness to brotherly love, he set an example for the young people of his time.

We are all called to be witnesses of God’s love through acts of charity and to care for others.

The first reading {First letter of St. John 3:11 – 21} gives us examples of how to live a life of love by our actions and how not to live a charitable life. Abel’s actions were righteous, but Cain’s were evil. To live a true charitable life, we need to occasionally eat humble pie and die to our self-centered ego. I like the line in the first reading that says – “We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers”. (And sisters). In Psalm 100 we hear the words “Serve the Lord with gladness, come before Him with joyful song”. Only a person with a true heart for charity can sing joyfully.

In the Gospel reading, Jesus recognized and acknowledged Nathanial’s goodness when he said, “There is no duplicity in him”. I took that to mean that he was not two faced. He was honest and true to himself.

These insights invite me to evaluate my own actions and attitudes. They inspire me to look at where my false self needs to die a bit to be able to live in true heartfelt charity. Then I can love others without judgement or any false-hearted side glances. It is easy to find excuses for my own actions and yet find no mercy when judging the actions of others. During Advent and Christmas, I focused on spreading hope and good will. It turned out to be a time filled with opportunities. I pointed out the good in the actions of others and admitted my own failures. Often, I searched for words to soften the fears of others. I attempted to avoid unresolved misunderstandings and readily asked for forgiveness. Sometimes I failed, but I kept working at it.

Reflection: How do your actions weigh in on the charitable scale?