Seventh Thursday of Ordinary Time

Anyone who gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ, amen, I say to you, will surely not lose his reward. Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were put around his neck and he were thrown into the sea.

Jesus speaks of reward and punishment in these two lines. He speaks of the consolation of Heaven awaiting those who are charitable and faithful and the chastisement of Hell for those who do evil or lead others astray. In this way, Jesus reminds us that our lives aren't insular. They have an effect on others for both good and ill. We might try to convince ourselves that our sins are private and don't hurt others, but that isn't true. Even the most private of sins have some effect on others, even if only indirectly. This is why it is so important to not only be faithful, but also charitable. Charity requires us to think of others. It asks us to put aside our own selfish inclinations and do what is right and good for those around us. The wonderful thing about acting out of love is that it gives an example of God's love for others to see and be affected by. Our good works inspire others to do good, too.

Are we bringing cups of goodness to others? What are the sins we suffer from that are leading not only us, but others astray? How can we do a better job of leading people to Jesus and not away from him?

O Lord, let us remember that all our actions affect others in some way and to always choose the ones that lead others to you.

Amen.