Traditionally associated with this mystery is the virtue of charity.
Charity has two parts, love of God and love of man. It begins with allowing ourselves to be loved by God Our Father as His children and by Jesus as His brothers and sisters. It then manifests itself in outward displays of love for others just as God has loved us. When we act in charity towards another there is no desire for reciprocity or reward. The act is done as if it is being done by God, through us, towards Himself in others. We are transparent and God’s love flows through us to Himself in others. As God gives selflessly to us we choose by charity to selflessly give to others. At times this will require sacrifice. But isn’t this exactly the kind of love we are called to in Christ, a sacrificial love that removes all reward for us and implies that we desire what is best for another above ourselves?
Charity is not always giving to others. It is also allowing others the joy of giving to us, humbly accepting what others wish to do for us. It is also loving ourselves as God loves us, completely.
Reflection:
When a family member, friend or even a stranger approached you asking for help, did you help? Did you feel taken advantage of or were you upset by their asking? Did you question whether they really needed your help or judge them?
When you sought help from a relative or friend did you receive the love, financial support, food or shelter you needed? Were you turned away? When denied help, did you feel rejected, humiliated, unimportant, or without value?
When others have seen a need and have desired to give to you, have you humbly accepted their help or rejected it?
Visualization:
Picture the Lord standing in front of you, saying, “You are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you.” (Isaiah 43:4) Look into His eyes, filled with love and compassion, and feel the love He has for you.
Now picture with you those people to whom you did not show true charity. As you look at each person, he or she changes into an image of Jesus. You realize that by helping them you would have shown charity towards Jesus. Look each one in the eyes and ask their forgiveness. As each one extends forgiveness to you embrace that forgiveness and feel it’s healing warmth. Feel God’s love enveloping you, blessing you.
In this moment picture in your mind anyone from whom you sought help emotionally, financially, and/or physically who refused to help you. Look into their eyes, and without judging them, tell them how they hurt you, upset you or made you feel worthless when you most needed their help. Hear them say, “I’m sorry.” Accept their apology and tell them you forgive them.
See God’s light filling the area you are standing in. Allow that light to fill your heart, mind, body and soul. Thank the Lord for giving you the grace to forgive and let go. Thank Him for presenting you with opportunities to love others as you love Him. Thank Him for the times when others have loved and helped you. Open your heart and receive with joy all that God desires to give you at this very moment. Feel His love permeate your soul, His peace fill you to overflowing. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 106:1)
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