Memorial of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, Virgin

Today's Mass Readings

Jesus tells us in today’s Gospel, “When you have done all that is commanded of you, say ‘We are unprofitable servants, we have only done what we are obliged to do.'”

I don’t know anyone who would speak like that, but I do know a phrase that has a similar meaning and is used at one of my favorite restaurants: “My pleasure.” My pleasure, said numerous times a day, accompanied by a smile. A simple phrase that can have a significant impact on the people being served. When you have received a gift, it brings joy and unity between the giver and receiver, but when the giver is just going through the motions, the gift feels hollow, and we miss out on that unity. With friends and family, we should seek to show our love and care for them.

In Lumen Gentium, we are reminded of our universal call to holiness, in which we are called to embrace virtues, act with justice, serve others, and follow Christ’s example. We should put our efforts toward unifying all people, and can do that through joyful service. Look for opportunities to serve those around you and bring your faith with you everywhere you go. At home, prepare a meal for family. At the office, restock the printer or help a colleague. In the classroom, lend a pen.

We are given many opportunities daily to do the work placed before us. This is what Jesus is telling us to do in today’s Gospel. Receive the work we have been given; complete it, trusting that God would not give us burdens too heavy. When we have completed these tasks, smile and acknowledge that the work we have done was not burdensome, but a gift we can offer to those who need us.

Reflection by Orion, seminarian