Philanthropy

I just returned from Maundy Thursday worship.  The theme tonight was Jesus’ example to the disciples of how they should keep His commandments to love God and neighbor – through service.  Jesus’ entire earthly ministry was characterized by service.  In a real sense, He was the world’s greatest ever philanthropist.  The word “philanthropy” is derived from the Greek word philanthropia, which means “love of mankind”.   In Paul’s letter to Titus, Paul used the word philanthropia to describe Christ. (Titus 3:4) Thus, it is clear that as Christ’s disciples, Christians are called to be philanthropists. 
 
I invite you to join me in this prayer:  Holy Father, please move each of us through your grace and the Holy Spirit to be philanthropists with the gifts You have given each of us, that we may be your hands on earth to relieve suffering in this world.