The Fifth Day in the Octave of Christmas

Readings of the Day 

Today we read in the First Letter of St. John that we are to keep the commandments of Jesus Christ if we profess to follow Him. The apostle’s articulation is clear – we must do more than simply say that we are followers. Our actions must reflect what we profess. How does this look to the world around us? By loving our brothers and sisters. The light of Christ that entered the world through His incarnation on Christmas shines ever brighter when we follow the commandment to love our neighbor as we love ourselves. 

Day in and day out, families and individuals across the United States seek various types of assistance from literally hundreds of thousands of non-profit agencies with missions to help people in need. Often, the services provided result from the funding received. The formula is unfortunately simple – no money, no mission. That’s not following Jesus – rather, that’s caring for others when the circumstances allow.

Catholic Charities agencies are known for going beyond that standard, for helping when no other agency can. Our mission is predicated on keeping the commandments of Jesus and loving our brothers and sisters, even when the resources are scant. Each day miracles take place throughout the national network of Catholic Charities agencies. These miracles, made possible by dedicated staff who desire to shine the light of Christ everywhere, are what encourage families and individuals in their most difficult moments to seek us out. And through the love of Jesus Christ that first entered the world some 2,000 years ago, we answer the call to respond, embracing those we are privileged to serve with all we have, just as Jesus embraces us.

Merry Christmas!

Gary Tester is President of Catholic Charities of Central Florida.

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