Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B *Alternate* Second Reading

There are many medicines and cures for all kinds of sicknesses.  But unless kind hands are given in service and generous hearts are given in love, I do not think there can ever be a cure for the terrible sickness of feeling unloved.

None of us has the right to condemn anyone.  Even when we see people doing bad and we don’t know why they do it.  Jesus invites us not to pass judgment.  Maybe we are the ones who have helped make them who they are.  We need to realize that they are our brothers and sisters.  That leper, that drunkard, and that sick person are our brothers because they too have been created for a greater love.  This is something that we should never forget.  Jesus Christ identified Himself with them and says, “Whatever you did to the least of my brethren, you did to me.”  Perhaps it is because we haven’t given them our understanding and love that they find themselves on the streets without love and care.

Be kind, very kind, to the suffering poor.  We little realize what they go through.  The most difficult part is not being wanted.

The words of Mother Teresa.