Monday – Memorial of St. Charles Borromeo

Gospel – Luke 14:12-14

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Magdala

Last night we were watching one of our British murder mysteries (so many mysteries, so little time!) and one of the characters was an elderly woman, a very proud, self-important busy body. The sort of person who believes the life of the entire village revolves around her.  She’s miffed that the new vicar’s wife hasn’t invited her over for tea.  Such an insult!  Of course, it’s not at all about the tea; all she wants is to spread some gossip afterwards.  And she certainly has no intention of ever returning the favor!

It reminds us of today’s Gospel where Jesus has been invited to a leading Pharisee’s house for dinner.  And you have to wonder what was the Pharisee’s motivation – prestige, popularity, gossip?  So Jesus reminds His host that a real honest invitation has no expectation of repayment.  In the Kingdom of Heaven, there is no gossip, no social-climbing!  There is only LOVE, with no expectation of anything in return!

It resonates with the life of today’s saint – Charles Borromeo.  Even though he came from a very wealthy and influential family, as a Bishop, he donated most of his wealth to charity.  He lived a sparse life devoid of frills and luxury, even though most bishops at the time lived a life of excess.  He gave up riches, power and influence to become poor like his flock.  During the plague, he fed tens of thousands of people on a daily basis; he tended to the sick and dying.  He was a model of Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel.

Great Spirit, teach me today to love without measure, to give without expectations!

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