Giving praise in our actions

The texts today from the Roman Catholic Lectionary complete the story of the relationship of God with Tobit, Tobiah and their family. Raphael, one of the Seven Angels of the Presence reminds us that God is too be praised for His work in our lives. We live in harmony with God by action which emulates His Love and compassion for us and others. This message is directed to the action of almsgiving as Jesus proclaims the great gift of the widow who is poor in spirit and who depends on Providence to sustain her. Pat Borchers reflects on the quality of giving which does not make itself known to others. One of the early discoveries of this trip was that in Pompeii there was recognition given to donors of material for construction of public baths. Our need to be recognized for our giving is deep within our ego. The people who have given of their time, talent and treasure in quite and generous ways to make our trip to Italy possible have the spirit of poverty and hospitality in great measure. Let us praise God for the good and generous people we have in our lives.