Thursday of the Second Week of Lent

Readings of the Day

Today’s reading from the First Letter of Peter speaks so significantly to the work of the Church and of Catholic Charities.  We’re invited to pray, love intensely, be hospitable without complaining, and share our gifts because of God’s grace. The line that really got me was, “whoever serves, let it be with the strength that God supplies.” Lent is a spectacular time to be remember that all that we have, do, and are is supplied by God! 

It reminds me of a story. Many years ago my niece, Ruthann, was probably three and was struggling to put a puzzle together.  I asked her if she wanted help.  She shook her head vehemently, put her hands on her hips, and said, “All by self!”  Sometimes I think that I am “Super Woman” and can do all these great works, “All by self!” I forget that I can’t without God’s strength. I’ve needed to be reminded of Ruthann’s lesson for a long time – and she is now 46 years old!

In the hustle and bustle of our work to serve our neighbors in shelters and food pantries and senior programs (think of your context) when was the last time we simply said: “OK God, this one is all yours?”  My experience is that when I get out of the way, am “prayed up,” and humble enough to ask, it is all so much easier and truthfully turns out far better than I ever could have asked or imagined. 

We are in a unique time.  The pandemic is thankfully waning; inflation has skyrocketed; there is a war zone in Ukraine; and church as we have known it is likely never to be the same.  Catholic Charities has a splendid opportunity now to help people regain their footing and recognize how their gifts are needed and sought to serve our neighbors.  I wonder if it is the right moment to proclaim God’s marvelous deeds to all the nations – including our parishes, communities, and government leaders- to come together and do what we can to change the world. 

As Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens (followers) can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, Happy Lent!

Sr. Betsy Van Deusen, CSJ is the Director of Community Partnerships at Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, NY. She serves on the CCUSA Parish Social Ministry Leadership Team.

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