In this week’s meditation, I wanted to share some thoughts regarding our responsibilities toward one another. In this world, filled with darkness and uncertainties, our faith becomes a guiding light, and our actions toward each other reflect the depth of our commitment to our Lord’s teachings.

In the Gospel of St. Matthew, Jesus teaches us in no uncertain terms about our duty towards our fellow human beings. In Chapter 25:35-36, He says, “For I was hungry, and you gave me to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave me to drink; I was a stranger, and you took me in: naked, and you covered me: sick, and you visited me: I was in prison, and you came to me.” These words of our Lord should fill us with a deep sense of compassion, kindness, and a deeper sense of responsibility for one another. It is not enough to merely profess our faith and traditions alone; our actions must bear witness to the love and the mercy that Christ extends to each and every one of us. In fulfilling our responsibilities toward one another, we actively participate in spreading God’s mercy to all of His creation.

What are some of these responsibilities? Firstly, the duty to feed the hungry addresses the imperative of not only physical hunger but the hunger of the soul – a spiritual hunger. As members of the Church, we are called to nourish both the body and spirit, recognising that in doing so, we serve Christ himself. The command to give drink to the thirsty extends beyond providing water; it encompasses quenching the spiritual thirst that exists in the hearts of those who seek knowledge of the teachings of Christ, as well as meaning and purpose in their lives. Our kindness and empathy become the refreshing waters that soothe the parched souls of our brothers and sisters, including the stranger who may not yet know Christ.

• Inviting the stranger reflects the openness of our hearts to those who are on the outside of society, alienated, or lonely. Christ, in His infinite wisdom, calls us to create a community that welcomes all, irrespective of their background.

• Clothing the naked extends beyond the physical act; it urges us to cover the vulnerabilities and insecurities of those around us with the warmth of our love and understanding. It is a call to create an environment where people feel embraced by the warmth of Christ.

• To care for the sick and visit those in prison shows the importance of healing, both physically and spiritually. Our duty is to be present for those in pain, offering comfort and support.

As we think about these various responsibilities, we should recall the words of St. James, who reminds us that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Our actions are confirmation of our living faith, and in fulfilling our responsibilities toward one another, we emulate the love and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ.

May God bless you +