“If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go in search of the stray?” Matthew 18:12
During Advent, we are reminded of God’s unlimited love and compassion for each person. Sometimes, we may find ourselves in the role of the lost sheep. Especially then, God’s infinite love is there to comfort us. No one is beyond God’s infinite love. As St. Oscar Romero taught, we all have an important role as both workers and ministers; we are called and challenged to love others just as God loves us. Advent is a joyous time, yet for many, it brings great stress and anxiety. When we see those who are poor, marginalized, or struggling, we have a responsibility to show mercy and give support however we can.
The Fundamental Principles of the Xaverian Brothers states, “it is through your life of gospel witness lived in community with others that God desires to manifest care and compassionate love…to the poor, the weak, and the oppressed of this world.” A commitment to serving the poor and marginalized is synonymous with our identity as an XBSS community. God IS love and in each loving relationship we build, God is present. As we carry out the Brother’s mission, we are constantly guided by and enveloped in the unconditional grace of our loving God.
Heavenly Father, grant us guidance to seek and love others as You seek and love us. As instruments of Your love, may we help those who are lost and struggling find their way back to Your loving arms. Amen.
Keegan Ernest