Today’s Sermon in a Nutshell:

Today’s Sermon in a Nutshell:

“Do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16)

Doing good and sharing are elemental aspects of our Christian Faith. In fact, they are much like the two bars of the cross, for they remind us that we have a vertical responsibility towards God to act rightly, remain steadfast in our faith; and be “good” like God, while at the same time a horizontal responsibility to be concerned with and care for those around us, “sharing” the gifts God has given us freely with others. Thus, doing good and sharing are integral in the bearing of our cross.

When we do let someone into our traffic lane, help someone carry a heavy load, or feed someone who is hungry, we not only do well, but receive a feeling of well-being ourselves. For by allowing someone into the lane before us, we share our good position. By helping someone carry a heavy object, we share our strength. And by feeding others, we share our gifts. Thus, we are treating others the way we would like to be treated.

However, in doing so we also emulate Christ. For when we were on the road to perdition, to Hell, it was our Lord who offered us a new pathway to travel upon. And when the weight of our sin was too great, it was He Who offered to bear that burden and take it unto Himself. And when we were hungering and thirsting for righteousness amidst a barren, fruitless garden, it was Jesus Who gave Himself to us as food, to refresh us through Holy Communion. 

So dear brothers and sisters, let us truly exemplify Christ and the Power of the Cross by striving to live a Good, Godly life, and to share with others all that God has blessed us with. For doing good and sharing is the best way to say Thank you to God!

Fr. John