As I have observed, ‘Catholics are always ready to give God all the credit, but not their cash!’ Thus, Jesus reminds all of us of our duties as Christians. The Code of Canon Law states: “Christ’s faithful have the obligation to provide for the needs of the Church, so that the Church has available to it those things which are necessary for divine worship, for works of the apostolate and of charity and for the worthy support of its ministers” (canon 222, par. 1). When Jesus said, “The laborer deserves his wages,” he is also telling us, ‘Just as you pay the carpenters who build your house, so also you must support my messengers who maintain the upkeep of your souls and build my Church.’

“The harvest is rich, but the laborers are few.” Jesus sent not only 12 apostles; he also sent 72 disciples. This symbolically indicates that he sends not only priests but also lay people to proclaim the message of salvation in the world. Let us be generous in supporting the Church, not only with our money, but also with our time, our talents and our energy so that we become active workers in the rich harvest of the Lord.

Therefore, as a priest whether I am accepted or not, I am committed to preaching the Word of God and especially when rejected, I live out the message; “I depend on God who sent me, who authorized me and his Kingdom will come.” So, Jesus is telling me to reflect, especially on three things during Lent. Join me as I ponder: 

• Seek first the Kingdom of God and all other things will be added on to you.
• What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world but suffers the loss of his own soul?
• Love one another as I have loved you.