"For One and All"

One of the doctors planned a night out with his buddies. He was pretty excited for their reunion because it had been a while. He received a call from his secretary just as he was about to get in the bath. He had to hurry to the hospital because his patient had been sent there urgently. The doctor consented to go, but only with much resentment. He apologized for being unable to join and called his buddies. Another call came in as the doctor approached the hospital. The patient has passed away. The doctor then returned to his friends. He was happy to welcome them inside the bar, saying, "Good thing I can join you guys! I was afraid I wouldn't make it, but a buddy who was aware of what had transpired retorted, "We're glad you're here. However, didn't your patient pass away? The doctor came to the realization that he was happy about something that was very tragic at that point.

What kind of favor are we looking for? Unfortunately, there are occasions when we choose our happiness over that of others. Even if what we want causes others to suffer, we do not care enough to consider this. All we need to do is find what we're looking for. Real blessings, however, bring joy to others in addition to yourself. If what we seek is a reason to celebrate for everyone, not just yourself, Our Lord will be happy.

Let's consider our prayers very carefully. Who actually gains from it? Were any individuals who would be at a disadvantage? Do we smile when others are crying?

According to the Gospel, the Gadarene inhabitants did not show enough concern for the two demoniacs that Jesus treated. They simply care about their own happiness. They were angry with Jesus because their welfare is the only thing that matters to them.

We should ask the Lord for a second grace as a result of this. Sometimes, it is inevitable that not everyone will be able to celebrate some blessings. Some people might not find them profitable. Are we prepared to make sacrifices in that situation? Do we possess the generosity of spirit necessary to sacrifice what may be advantageous to us in favor of a larger good? Can we set aside our personal worries and interests for a greater good?

Again, the gospel's followers fell short in this area. They turned away from Jesus because they were unable to part with their pigs. The two men in need of a treatment are not as vital as their business. They thought it was wrong to prioritize people over trade. They were so indignant when Jesus cast out the two and the pig herd plunged off the cliff. Because they were unwilling to exchange their excellent for something more priceless and famous, they sent the Lord away.

Consider the examples of parents who gave up everything for their kids, even their own aspirations in life. I once presided over a silver wedding anniversary. During the Mass, I invited the youngsters to speak. I remember the son informing us that his mother was the province's beauty queen. Her perfect complexion, silky hands, and other appealing characteristics, however, have vanished as a result of the hardships of work and the sacrifices she must make just to help support the family.

How many parents will still choose to prioritize their children over their goals and careers? How many young professionals are willing to choose integrity and justice over wealth and power? What percentage of us are prepared to submit to God's will for our lives? How many people are ready to find true blessings in their lives, in essence?

Let us pray that our blessing will be a blessing for all. Furthermore, and I know this is a more difficult prayer to make, may we be kind and courageous enough to give up our own benefit for the sake of a greater good. When this occurs, we are truly prepared to receive Jesus into our life!