“You will come to know that what appears
today to be a sacrifice will prove instead to be the greatest investment that
you will ever make.” – Gordon Hinckley
How often do we take for granted
the sacrifices made around us? Do we adequately acknowledge and appreciate the
sacrifices our spouse makes for our children and us? Are we grateful for those
who have served in the military at times – other than holidays? And are we
truly appreciative for those who sacrifice in ministry – both at Catholic
Charities and in churches, schools, and on mission fields around the world?
If someone were to literally lay
their life down for yours, wouldn’t you do everything within your power to show
them every day that sacrifice was worth it – their life was not given up in
vein? What if someone laid down their life for your child – how would that
change both your perspective and attitude?
Christ gave the ultimate sacrifice
for us. We didn’t deserve it, but He gave His perfect life in death so we could
live. His blood was not only shed for our sins but was also shed for our
redemption.
A favorite reminder of this is
found in 1 John 4:9 – 12
This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one
and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not
that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning
sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to
love one another. No one has seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in
us and His love is made complete in us.
Giving up one’s self for another
takes service to a whole new level. To lay down your life for another – that is
true love. To all those who lay down themselves for Catholic Charities –
whether with time, prayer, and financial support – thank you. You are the hands
and feet of Christ. Thank you for continually providing help, creating hope and
serving all.
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