Tomorrow, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, is the election day in the United States. May of the U.S. citizens will go to the poll to fulfill our sacred and civic duty/responsibilities by electing our new representatives into various offices in the local, state and national level.
When we go to the polling stations tomorrow, may we be guided by Paul’s admonitions: “Let nothing be done through contention, neither by vain glory: but in humility, let each esteem others better than themselves”
How I wish our political and religious authorities carry their responsibilities without vain glory and contention but in humility.
How I wish that we spent more time in building one another up and not tearing each other down.
How I wish that our daily desire is to “esteem others better than ourselves.”
Do you live by the quid pro quo principle?
Jesus admonished us not to follow the principle of quid pro quo. Rather, Jesus asked us to the extra mile, turn the other cheek, be as merciful as God our Father. His call to go beyond the call of duty echoes in loudly in today’s Gospel. “When you’re holding a party, invite people who are ill, lonely or marginalized.” We are called to a level generosity far beyond what most of us will ever fully practice.
Jesus likes to set the bar very high for his followers. He asked us to show kindness even if it is unmerited hospitality. (Mt 5:7).
Paul echoes the words of Jesus when he asked us to foster unity of spirit and shared ideals, avoid all rivalry or conceit, and sincerely care for the interests of others.
The mission of Jesus is bigger than any of us. May we strive to see with the eyes of Jesus. Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta would say “A life not lived for others is not a life.”
Have a wonderful Week
