Love means giving without expectations, that there is more happiness in giving than in receiving.

we receive from the heavens above are not really meant just for us.

The blessings that we receive shall be shared to those who are in need.

We are just the instruments of God.

 

＊＊＊ 1st Reading ＊＊＊  

Romans 11:29-36 

The call of God, and his gifts,

Cannot be nullified. Through the disobedience of the Jews, the mercy of God came to you who did not obey God. They, in turn, will receive mercy, in due time, after this disobedience, that brought God's mercy to you. So, God has submitted all to disobedience, in order to show his mercy to all.

 

How deep are the riches, the wisdom and knowledge of God! His decisions cannot be explained, nor his ways understood! Who has ever known God's thoughts? Who has ever been his adviser? Who has given him something first, so that God had to repay him? For everything comes from him, has been made by him and has to return to him. To him be the glory forever! Amen.

 

Ps 69:30-31, 33-34,36 Lord, in your great love, answer me.

 

＊＊＊＊ Gospel ＊＊＊＊      

Luke 14:12-14

Jesus also addressed the man who had invited him, and said, "When you give a lunch or a dinner, don't invite your friends, or your brothers and relatives, or your wealthy neighbors. For surely they will also invite you in return, and you will be repaid. When you give a feast, invite instead the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind. Fortunate are you then, because they cannot repay you. You will be repaid at the resurrection of the upright."

 

Gospel Reflection ：

"Jesus asks us to give as he gives."

They say that it takes money to make money and that is often the case. Certainly, it's easy to give to those who can reciprocate. We celebrate with people who can invite us back. We exchange presents with people who already have more than they can use. We loan money to those we are certain will be able to repay us. None of those things is bad in itself. It's laudable to spend time with and care for those we love, those with whom we share ties of family and friendship.

 

But Jesus calls us to a different standard. He asks us to extend our welcome and our care to those who can't help us, to those whose need is greatest. Our kindness and generosity may not be reciprocated, but that is precisely the point. Jesus asks us to give as he gives, selflessly reaching out to meet the needs that exist, not in hope of any reward. May we be blessed with opportunities to serve.