Inspired by Matthew 26:6-13
“‘Why this waste? For this ointment could have been sold for a large sum, and the money given to the poor.’ But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, ‘Why do you trouble the woman? She has performed a good service for me. For you always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. By pouring this ointment on my body she has prepared me for burial.’” Matthew 26:8b-12
As Christians we are called to work for justice and serve the poor and needy. Given that we live in an unjust world filled with poor and needy souls, it seems that our work will never be complete. We battle discouragement and frustration as we try to make a small dent in the overwhelming need, bringing hope to one person at a time as more and more people show that they are desperate for our help.
Our work would be futile but for one thing: we are doing this on behalf of Christ. It is Christ who has called us, redeemed us, empowered us. It is Christ who sustains us. And it is Christ to whom we must remember to turn periodically. The work and the needs will always be there, but if we don’t pause to refresh and renew ourselves with our Savior, then all our work is for nothing, because we will become discouraged and frustrated, and we will give up.
Jesus Christ our Lord died, and was buried. And then he rose again, and he is with us now, though not in body as his first disciples knew him. Do not get so caught up in the work that you forget why you’re doing it in the first place; turn to Christ, tend to your relationship with him, and let him serve your needs, as well.
Let us pray. Tender Lord, you have called us to hard and unrelenting work. Turn our hearts to you, that we may be refreshed and renewed by your grace. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
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