Daily Reflection
September 5, 2025

When I read the readings for this week, I was drawn to the optional readings in memoriam of St. Teresa of Calcutta, for many, St. Teresa (Mother Teresa to some still) is a beacon of how Christ wants us to live. To me, she is a substantial figure who helped many sick, dying, and destitute people and continued her work until her last day. Her life of selflessness in assisting people who have been turned away in every aspect of their lives, particularly in their most critical and desperate health situations, was remarkable. How can we, in this time of uncertainty, continue the work of Jesus in helping the poor, sick, and lonely? But even more so, how can we stand against the audacious anti-Christian rhetoric that is happening in our country? This is a time of pain and suffering for so many, and actions under the guise of safety and security are blatant, vicious, and oppressive. 

In Isaiah 58 6-11, God calls us in the first reading to clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and care for one another. When the opposite is occurring right in front of our eyes, do we shy away, or are we called to use our voices in protest and protection of God’s children? Choosing to help and speak for those who lack authority or privilege is what we need to do to act in a Christian manner. This is not being woke, but if it is, then that is what Jesus is asking us to be. Jesus is asking us to lead with empathy, kindness, openness, and wisdom. There is no question as to who is worthy, because to Jesus, everyone is worthy. And since we are all worthy, we all deserve care.

The second reading is a call out to those who will be judged by their words, actions, and deeds. Jesus says, “whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.” He is calling us to pause and reflect on our actions and how we treat others. He doesn’t say you have to be an angel and only do good, but when it comes to the stranger, think immigrant, the hungry, think of children whose food is being withheld from them, the afflicted, the unhoused person, these are ALL him. How we treat each other and those who are suffering is a direct reflection of how Jesus sees us treating His children, and therefore Him. If we remember that Jesus is in every human being, then perhaps we can begin to heal the world of its darkness. 

As we begin the month of September, let us act within the Two Feet of Social Justice model in both charitable and social justice-oriented work. Both actions can help create a more just world and address the needs of others who are in dire need of assistance. Action-oriented work is what Jesus calls each one of us to do. September is Hunger Action Month, an impactful way to raise awareness about food insecurity and donate to local food pantries or start a food drive in your community.  In closing, the following quote from St. Teresa of Calcutta brings the gospel and readings for this week to the forefront:

“Each one of them is Jesus in disguise.” – St. Teresa of Calcutta

Pray for peace.