We all fall into the trap of thinking our time, talents, or treasures are more important than others. We might not realize it, but we do it nonetheless. When a family member, friend, or stranger unexpectedly asks us to do something for them sometimes we say "no" without thinking it through or make up excuses. Other times we grudgingly agree to do something for them or inwardly complain about what an imposition this or that is. Sadly, it is very easy for us to forget how the other person feels when they see or hear our reactions. This is why Jesus keeps telling us to be open to being selfless and to do things without the expectation of return or reward. We are not here on earth to deny others our time, talents, and treasures because we believe we have more important things to do. We are here on earth to love in spite of what harm others might cause us or what they might demand of us. Jesus asks us to go the extra mile and to give of ourselves and turn our backs on no one. This is a hard thing to do, but it is what Jesus did in his own life and we have no excuse to deny others what Jesus would give them if he was in our shoes.
Do we do things for others even when we don’t like them or don’t want to? Do we needlessly complain about other people imposing themselves on our lives? What can we do to build up the habit and instinct to set aside ourselves and serve others?
O Lord, give us the inspiration to give ourselves to others in love and never to deny them our charity.
Amen.
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