FATHER DAVID’S POST OF 10-8-2021 —
Each one of us is a part of connected networks. This can be here at SsAM, it can be at our workplace, it can be with members of our families.
We might not realize it but each one of us influences others in our network. For example, if I communicate a positive attitude, then this attitude will have an influence on others in my network and they will take this positive attitude out to others in the networks they interact with. The opposite is also true. If I show myself to others as hopeless or depressed, this in turn will have a negative impact on others. Relationships matter in our individual and corporate lives.
The same is true as followers of Jesus. Each of us is a child of God and siblings to one another. Think about that for a moment. Each one of us is connected to Jesus which means we are part of a worldwide family of believers. That does not mean we will always get along. At times we have disagreements with one another. Sadly, sometimes divisions rip faith communities apart. Being a follower of Jesus does not take away the reality that we are flawed human beings who sin. The fact remains, however, that we are all connected through the life and death of Jesus Christ.
The second point I wish to briefly touch on is the human tendency to focus more on task than on relationships. Both are necessary but so often our attention and energy focus on what needs to be done more than on the building up the community where all may flourish.
The currency of relationship is an important first step when it comes to looking at stewardship wholistically. Each person regardless of their social and economic status is valued as a part of this community and together the ministry and mission will flow inside and outside the walls of SsAM.
Peace,
Fr. David+, OA
