We celebrated today the feast of St. Abraam and as it is well known, that he is one of the most powerful examples of caring for and giving to the needy. However, when I think about his life, I realize that he gave himself first before giving to the poor. His relationship with Christ allowed him to grow out of himself to the point of emptying not only his pocket but his own awareness of self. The biggest problem that can face anybody, is over-awareness of themselves, either being appreciated or depreciated. St. Abraam committed his life to the word of God and as he kept this commitment, God worked through and with him. We expect to gain the fruits without sawing the seeds. We expect to have a fruitful service without laboring and giving up our rest, time, and most importantly, ourselves.
Another thing in his life that stood out to me, is that he dealt with different denominations and religions with all humbleness and respect. He prayed for everyone who approached him and even healed their sick and gave their poor. The issue of respecting, accepting and dealing with the "other". We grew up fearing the other, keeping a far distance from the other to the extent that we brainwashed ourselves into thinking that we are the only people who have the right thing and the other is plainly wrong and is not even worthy of consideration or our prayers. In Mark 9:39-41 "Teacher," said John, "we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us."
Do not stop him," Jesus said. "No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us. I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward."
Everybody that comes our way, belongs to Christ, whether they are members of our church or other churches. We need to stop the arrogance and the tendency to view any other as enemy but rather a friend and brother or sister in Christ.
This can't happen unless we empty ourselves first, be grounded in the word of God and acquiring the mind of Christ.
Hail to you St. Abraam, who lived and touched people's lives as your Lord and Savior. Hail to you who didnt give only money, but gave yourself to Christ first and then his children.
May your people O'Lord be aware of your love and invitation to everyone. you accepted all, teach us to accept all, you were a source of healing and comfort to all, teach us to be the same for all that we may win for you the "all"