Putting needs of others first

AS WE move into December we know the year is rushing to a close. We might reflect on the very full year that it has been and on how fast the year has gone.

We may even have some regrets about something that we might have handled better, or that we neglected to do. We can be sorry about this, but hopefully we now move forward with a positive spirit.

When we consider many of the problems around the world for example: the wars and conflicts in Syria, the Middle East and many parts of the world, we should give thanks for the many blessings that we receive in Australia

We should be moved from just worrying about ourselves and begin to consider the plight of others, especially those displaced from their homelands and all those who continue to struggle because of difficulties.

The closing of this Jubilee Year of Mercy does not bring to an end the fact God’s mercy continues to be given to us. We should acknowledge this by our own acts of mercy and kindness towards others.

Pope Francis stressed that receiving God’s mercy was not enough, we also have to be a sign and instrument of mercy for others “mercy is not received for particular moments, but it embraces the whole of our daily existence”.

We can be preoccupied with all that we have to do in preparation for Christmas: Have we bought presents for others? What do we expect to receive ourselves by way of presents? What will we be doing at Christmas and where will we go during the holidays?

At this time we should also be outward thinking and put the needs of others first. An example of this could be by providing some financial support to an agency providing medical and personal support to victims and their families of disasters that have occurred around the world during the year.

I am sure there are many opportunities by which in a practical way we can show our support and solidarity.

A Christmas gift of financial support to people in need is a meaningful and worthwhile act of charity.

Each year 50% of the collection at all Christmas Masses in the diocese, is earmarked for some worthwhile overseas cause. This year the amount will be transmitted to the Archbishop of Suva, Fiji for assistance to people in villages so badly affected by Cyclone Winston which struck in February 2016.

Similarly donations can be made to Caritas Australia www.caritas.org.au .

May the Holy Spirit guide us as we make end-of-year plans. May we leave some time for relaxation and reflection.

May the joy and peace of Christmas be with you and your loved ones at this special time and throughout 2017.

I wish you all a very happy Christmas.