32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time |
[Father Paul]
Introduction
A few weeks ago, I was walking through the main lobby of one of our hospitals, and I felt like I was being accosted by fundraisers. It was a very uncomfortable experience, and definitely not what I want us to experience here at St. Alexander. I remember hearing that criticism while I was pastor of another church: Father, we are being “nickeled-and-dimed to death.” And yet, financial stewardship is so important to our parish. So I am devoting the entire month of November to financial stewardship, so we don’t have to constantly be talking about money all year long.
But why is this so important? Why do we need to spend sometimes millions of dollars in supporting our mission? Why can’t I just develop my relationship with Jesus at home? We spoke about this a bit last week. I spoke of the essence of being a follower of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is to encounter Him, surrender to His will, and walk in His footsteps.
Before we explore this question, let me share with you a vision from Catholic Christian Outreach. This is a blessed opportunity for young missionaries to serve in our local universities and college campuses. Last year, we heard from one of our own parishioners embarking on this sacred mission, sharing her testimony. We are blessed to have CCO missionaries at Brock as well. They present a powerful image, likening a relationship with Jesus to that of a romantic relationship, unfolding in three stages.
Outside My Life: At this stage, you may see someone on the bus or at work, yet feel no interest. Similarly, you may know of Jesus, have heard His name, but feel no connection. You might attend church to appease friends or family, but your heart remains untouched.
Part of My Life: In a romantic sense, you may begin to see this person more frequently, perhaps forming a friendship or starting to date. Many songs capture this stage, like the lyrics that say:
So let it be, what it'll be
Don't make a fuss and get crazy over you and me
Here's what I'll do
I'll play loose
Not like we have a date with destiny
It's just (aah) a little crush (crush)
Not like I faint every time we touch
It's just (aah) some little thing (crush)
Not like everything I do depends on you
Sha-la-la-la, sha-la-la-la
Likewise, with Jesus, perhaps you are at this stage—a mere crush. You believe in Him, attend church occasionally, but hesitate to fully commit, even feeling a bit embarrassed to share your faith with friends. But you do like him!
The Center of My Life: This stage transcends mere dating; the person becomes the very center of your existence. They are your first thought upon waking and your last before sleep. You would lay down your life for them, and losing them would feel like losing yourself. This is the true essence of discipleship with Jesus. He becomes the center of your life, and you give everything to Him. This is where I find myself now.
The Path to Discipleship
Today, I invite you to delve deeper into this spiritual path by contemplating a profound question: Whatever stage you’re at, wherever you are on this journey to a deeper relationship with Christ, what do we do now? If you have chosen to surrender to Jesus and follow Him, how do you best fulfill this holy commitment?How do we journey from having Jesus outside our lives to making Him the center? This is the purpose of our church—to equip you for this sacred journey. Here at St. Alexander, we envision this calling to discipleship through five STEPS:
“S” Service in Ministry: Even if you are not ready to make Jesus the center of your life, but feel a call to something deeper, this is a good starting point. Consider helping in one of our ministries, and we will support you in this endeavor.
“T” Tithing a Percentage of Your Income: If ministry service is not your calling, perhaps you can deepen your commitment through financial support of our parish. This act of giving will bring you joy. Reflect on the widow's mite; she gave a large percentage of her income, not the dollar amount. What percentage are you willing to offer to the church at this time? We will discuss this further next week.
“E” Engage in Small Groups: Next Lent, we will offer everyone in our parish the opportunity to join a small group. Ideally, being a parish member and part of a small group should be synonymous. We will begin this Lent, having ordered 500 copies of "Living Faith" for us to study together. We will need many volunteers to host these groups, so you will hear more about this soon.
“P” Prayer: If you are not ready to commit financially or socially, and small groups are not for you, consider deepening your prayer life. Pray alone or with others, attend Adoration on Tuesdays from 4-5, or join the Monday Rosary after morning Mass. Speak to Him, and ask Him to reveal Himself to you.
“S” Sharing Your Faith: This step is more advanced. When you discover a new restaurant, you naturally share it with others. The same applies to your experience at St. Alexander. If it is positive, share it with others.
Conclusion
Let us look to St. Francis as an example of one who made Jesus the center of his life. A wealthy young man turned mendicant, St. Francis gave up everything. I recall a dream I had of him and his companions in Assisi, gathered in a large stone room, sharing a meal. Surprisingly, the meal was a delicious steak. In my dream, I questioned why the food was so good, given their vow of poverty. They replied, "You are seeing this food with the eyes of faith. When you choose to follow Jesus, the sacrifices become effortless. He supports and strengthens us, helping us bear incredible difficulties with grace and joy. This is what it means to be a saint."
As followers of Jesus, our generosity becomes the expression of His gift to us: a gift, exploding within us with joy. You will find a strength you never knew you had. If you lack this strength, ask yourself what holds you back. Have you truly decided to follow Christ? Fear not, for in giving, we receive; in pardoning, we are pardoned; and in dying, we are born to eternal life. Amen.
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