Giving

The story is told about a man who had a religious conversion. He gave up his worldly ways. He stopped reading “Playboy” and “Penthouse.” Now he reads “Prayboy” and “Repenthouse.”

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In today’s Gospel (Mt. 13, 44-52) Jesus teaches us – in the Parable of the Buried Treasure and in the Parable of the Fine Pearls – the need to give up something or even someone for the sake of the Kingdom of God. In other words, commitment involves sacrifice. We cannot go through life uncommitted. Somewhere along the way, we must make choices, many of which will involve letting go and making sacrifices.

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Our world is pretty much caught up in looking for, and amassing, worldly treasure. The OFW phenomenon, the popularity of television game shows, and the daily media reports about people in government who have appropriated for themselves public funds, attest to this. Money has become the bottom line of everything or everyone nowadays, so it seems. And when I read about government officials who steal from poor people, I can’t help but ask myself: How much money does one need in this life? Is it all worthwhile?

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In this world we meet all sorts of people when it comes to money matters. Some are mean, cunning, exacting and unforgiving.  However, there are those who inspire us and remind us that money is not everything. Wherein lies the difference? It is in the attitude. For the former, money is the end. For the latter, money is just a means. For the former, money is about ownership, while for the latter money is about stewardship. Let not money become our master and god. Let not money enslave us. Instead, let money serve us. Yes, let us use money for our salvation, not for our condemnation.

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Today is Fil-Mission Sunday. We remember, we pray and we commit our support for our Filipino missionaries who have left home, country and family for the sake of the Kingdom of God, braving deprivations, loneliness and even persecutions. They are “out there” not to save dollars, but to (pardon the cliché) “save souls.” They are our gift to the world, they who go out with humility and joy to tell the world of His love. Their presence is prophetic. They remind us that money is not everything.

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In our Mission House, there is a constant flow of arriving and departing Filipino SVD missionaries working in 46 countries all over the world. It is so enriching to hear their stories of mission and dialogue. They are so appreciative of whatever we can give them—a little cash, a pair of shoes, a shirt, a piece of luggage, whatever. Those of you who have buried treasures, why don’t you share them and put them in good use? Please contact us (SVD Mission Office 721-7457, 414-7044; Fax 727-1160; [email protected]), and we will help you share your blessings. Yes, let not your treasures be buried with you!

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It was just a simple, used wristwatch that I gave, but I remember how grateful one Filipino missionary to Africa was or how a used laptop gave so much joy to a missionary departing for the foreign missions for the first time. Yes, little things do mean a lot, not only for the receiver, but for the giver as well. How many more big things! How many more immeasurable and unquantifiable rewards for those who are generous of heart!

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In general, people are generous and kind-hearted. In my 20 years working in the Mission Office, I have encountered so many giving people. They know who they are, and I want to sincerely thank them. More than that, God knows who they are. Thank you. God bless you. Mama Mary loves you, one with you in prayer and in mission.

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How generous are you? Generous people end up happy. Selfish people end up miserable. It is your choice. It is your call. And remember, generosity is not just about treasures, but about time and talents as well. By the way, public service is all about generosity, and definitely not about self-service and selfishness.

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Recently, I visited a friend in a hospital who had a heart condition. Only 40 percent of his heart was working. Come to think of it: How many percent of our heart is still working? How many of us still have a heart? But then, on another hospital visit, I met a person who also had a heart condition called “enlarged heart”! Conclusion: Too little or too much of heart is bad?!

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There I was, kind of upset that I forgot to bring in my Mass kit the bell I would need in my Mass. But when I arrived at the house where I was going to celebrate the Mass, lo and behold, two cabinets full of all kinds of bells caught my eyes! I had walked into the house of a bell collector who told me to use and bring home all the bells I wanted. Yes, people are generous, and God is more than generous!

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Bantay Matanda invites you to a lay forum on Saturday, July 30 on “Management of Psychological & Behavioral Problems of Alzheimer’s Patients,” at the Janssen Hall of Christ the King Seminary, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. For inquiries, please call 373-2262/998-2548 or 09174167849.

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A moment with the Lord:

Lord, remind me that true life is all about giving and forgiving. Amen.