A nephew of mine was recently chosen by his teacher to join him at a special dinner entitled “You’re the reason,” as in “You’re the reason I teach?” Included in the tribute, the teacher commented on how he found my nephew to be a great conversationalist, funny, and bringing a positive attitude and joy to everyone he encounters. The teacher went on to highlight how my nephew reminds him of the importance of living generously and being absolutely authentic in everything we do.
Naturally, as his aunt, I am very proud of him (as I am of all my nieces and nephews in their respective endeavours!), but more importantly, this tribute reminds me of how we are all called to this higher ethic by Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount. Yet, so often, we reject it as nave or simply out of fear that we will be cast aside by those rushing on ahead to capture whatever the current prize is.
God of wisdom, we thank you for reminding us of our true calling to strive for the greater gifts of truth, purity of heart, and love towards you and your world. Amen. — PG