I am sure many in the congregations started by St. Paul appreciated him and his ministry. He introduced thousands to Jesus Christ. Yet only the Philippians shared with Paul something to provide for his needs (Phil 4:15). Many loved Paul but few showed it. The world is full of loved people who think they're not loved because others don't show their love.

"What I say to you is this: Make friends for yourselves through your use of this world's goods" (Lk 16:9). Let your loved ones know they're loved. Give money and presents. "When you have a reception, invite beggars and the crippled, the lame and the blind," and others who may not know they are loved (Lk 14:13). If you don't have any money, presents, or food (or even if you do), you can at least give a cup of cold water in Jesus' name (Mt 10:42). We should greet one another with a holy kiss (2 Cor 13:12), or at least a pat on the back. However, we must let people know they're loved by expressing this in a tangible way.

This is what Jesus did. He touched people, even lepers, and kissed people, even Judas. He gave Judas the chosen portion and even washed the feet of the apostles (Jn 13:5, 26). He died for us and gave us Himself as the Bread of Life (Jn 6:35). Our heavenly Father loves us and showed us His love so much "that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him may not die but may have eternal life" (Jn 3:16).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, March 30, 2004

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 1, 2004