ALL SAINTS NOVENA, DAY 3, 10-25-09, SAINTS CARE FOR PRACTICAL NEEDS

Another aspect of St Damien’s life that astounded us was how much he cared for the people’s practical needs. Far from being limited to only spiritual pursuits such as the Mass, Sacraments and counseling, Fr Damien saw overwhelming physical needs and met them tirelessly. He planted food, he planted trees, he built houses, schools, and hospitals, he bandaged wounds, he dug graves, even building caskets for the dead with his own two hands.

How does this apply to us? It takes no time at all, especially in today’s economy and the practically limitless access we have to the media, to be made aware of the overwhelming human needs all around us. And perhaps it is nowhere clearer than in the book of James that it is our responsibility as Christians to meet these needs whenever we can: “If a brother or sister has nothing to wear and no food for the day, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, keep warm, and eat well,” but you do not give them the necessities of the body, what good is it?”. (James 2:15-16) We may have financial resources, and if we do we should give them. If we do not, we could give our time volunteering at a shelter or a food bank, or offer to make a meal for a friend going through hard times.

Prayer: Lord, make me sensitive to the needs around me and help me meet them as an expression of your love

ALL SAINTS NOVENA, DAY 3, 10-25-09, SAINTS CARE FOR PRACTICAL NEEDS