When it's Inconvenient

Gospel Reflection for November 27, 2023

“When he looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, ‘I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.’” (Luke 21:1-4 NABRE)

Sometimes we serve God and others only when it is convenient for us. Sometimes we show love and compassion to others, volunteer our time, or go out of our way to be a zealous servant of Christ only when it is easy for us. Usually this is on days when we’re in a good mood, got plenty of sleep the night before, or have simply found ourselves with some newfound free time.

But the woman in today’s Gospel served God even when it was not convenient for her. Surely, she could have used the money she donated for herself, but she thought not of herself, and she put God first.

We, too, must strive to think not of ourselves, but rather, firstly of God and others.

When we’re overwhelmed, tired, frustrated, or simply busy and feeling in a crunch for time, we must remember to keep God first. We must strive to do all things in love and with patience. Even when we’re tired or busy, we must remember to offer up our sufferings to Christ and go out of our way to help others or be there for them when they need it.

It can be easy to overlook other’s needs when we’re only thinking about our own. So, we must adopt a spirit of love and selflessness and seek to look out for others, even when we don’t feel like it, or even when it isn’t convenient.

The next time you have the opportunity, even when it’s inconvenient, talk with someone who needs a listener or a shoulder to lean on, take a moment to assist someone, offer a smile or a kind word to others, and simply spread the love and light of God in the world!!