Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Abundance and Need

“I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need. I can do all things in him who strengthens me. Still, it was kind of you to share in my distress.”

I feel like St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians was directed to me. I needed this reminder during these COVID-19 times. And I should probably just end this reflection right here.

Let me be clear—I do not lack for food. But I have missed the riches of long, drawn-out meals with provocative, exciting conversations. I have missed seeing people that I love and visiting in person. Nothing can replace the St. Francis community gathered in person. In essence, I missed the Parish Festival so much! The drive-by blessing of the animals was just a taste of what we missed. Feast or famine has become real to us in many ways. With these experiences, what we miss teaches us about what abundance means. And we are reminded about sharing with those in need.

The readings for this weekend include imagery of wedding feasts, banquets, and special meals. Such occasions often require special attire, as well as a special demeanor or disposition. Such celebrations are filled with love, filled with gratitude for the relationships we share. Can you imagine that you would ever say NO to an invitation? What would it mean to show up without a “wedding garment”?

If persons are called in to the banquet out of the streets, they certainly do not have the right clothes. This is when the words from our baptismal ritual become real. “You have become a new creation and have clothed yourself in Christ. See in this white garment the outward sign of your Christian dignity. With your family and friends to help you by word and example, bring that dignity unstained into the everlasting life of heaven.”

May we all be clothed in Christ, providing and protecting, grace-filled and grateful or all that we are becoming in preparation for the greatest banquet of all!