We are rightly concerned about the “side effects” of medicines that are prescribed for us. In a much more positive way it seems our good deeds have side effects, too. When we act with charity there is a clear effect on us – a warming of the heart, a sense of peace and joy. I think this is intended by the Lord, maybe a reward for kindness or an encouragement for us. It is right and just. But these results are not an end in themselves, not the goal. When I was chaplain at our high school, Bishop Eustace Prep, I recall students in our ministry program sometimes encouraging others to participate by telling them, “You feel so good when you help someone”. They spoke as if this were the main reason for doing good. But it isn’t. I do good for others as a result of my faith and my loving relationship with the Lord. The Letter of St. James in the New Testament speaks of the connection between faith and works. Doing the right thing, the best thing, is a reward in itself. It deepens my friendship with the Lord. It opens me to the full meaning of faith and love. The good feelings, the fulfillment I experience, are gifts of the Lord to heal and strengthen me in the practice of charity and good works. Our cooperation with grace invokes God’s compassion. The generosity of the Lord allows these to spill over when I reach out in love and faith. Advent is a time of preparation, a time to take stock. Ministry is a medicine to heal our often wounded hearts and enable us to pursue our vocation. The Lord comes again. Pave the way with acts of prayer and charity.

Please consider serving underprivileged as Saint Leo's host its annual Christmas Dinner for the Homeless in the Church Hall. Over 300 hot and hearty meals will be served. Just show up if you're able to help! It's festive and fun. Also needed: your donations of cakes & pies to serve for dessert.