Dear Parishioners,
Who doesn’t like to be on the receiving end when it comes to gifts? My aunt and a friend of ours constantly say to me, “It’s good to be a gift giver.” I am still trying to figure out if their comments are meant for me or are they general statements. Because of that, when they say it to me I respond with, “I know. You’re so right. So you be the gift giver and I will be the gift bearer!” (Hahahaha)! They always look at each other, shake their heads, and laugh. So I guess their message is clear! Name one person who doesn't like to receive gifts? I cannot think of any!
I know one of the feelings I have when I receive a gift is joy. The gift giver has truly taken the time to identify something they know I would like and they spent their money on me! Also, I feel blessed that I have someone who would do such a selfless act.
Ever since Msgr. Aguggia and I have been doing “Cooking with the Clergy,” I cannot tell you how many gifts we have received. From chef hats, a professional chopper, rice cooker, apron, wine and a 5 piece wok set; you could only imagine the look on my face when I open my front door and see boxes their that no one in the rectory ordered...Like a kid on Christmas Day! I cannot thank you all enough for your generous gifts and making us feel blessed! All these items will be put to good use...by me (hahaha). Please know that we do not do it for the gifts...NOPE, we do it for YOU! Hopefully we get you to crack a smile and to see us in a new and different light.
Above all, the gifts I mentioned above and the gifts that we receive from each other are tangible. However, the gift that we receive , that Jesus speaks about in today’s Gospel, is the “gift that keeps on giving.” That’s the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, the gift that Jesus promises to each one of us prior to His Ascension. This is the gift that we continuously receive on a daily basis. We receive it in the simplest of ways, especially these days; namely, a car parade, a wave, smile and hello from a neighbor, an email or text from someone we haven't heard from in a while, zoom sessions, Facetime, letters, etc. These are gifts of love and selflessness! These gifts are more precious than any tangible item!
Let us continue to offer the gifts that the Holy Spirit gives to each one of us for the sake of others; namely, Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety and Fear of the Lord.
In the Good Shepherd,
Fr. Robert Mema
