The Church has been fiercely attacked in the last decade, both from within and without. Though the bombs explode around us, now is not a time to hide in the foxholes. Rather, now is a time for the members of the Church to be generous, fruitful, and abundant. Like St. Lawrence, who was burned to death as a martyr, we are to burn brightly in our witness for Jesus, being living candles for God. We "are the light of the world" (Mt 5:14), and our "light must shine before men so that they may see goodness in" our "acts and give praise" to God (Mt 5:16).

Now is the time for Jesus to increase greatly in our society through our witness. Therefore, we must die to our tendency to seek the safe and comfortable (Jn 12:24). Dare to be great for the Lord and "increase your generous yield" (2 Cor 9:10). Increase your tithing and almsgiving. "Make disciples" by conceiving more children and discipling them for Jesus (Mt 28:19). Step out publicly in your witness for Jesus. Stand up publicly for pro-life candidates and causes. Teach your children the Scriptures. Go to Mass more frequently, even daily.

As we thus increase our yield, God multiplies our energy and supplies our needs (2 Cor 9:10). So with cheerful hearts (2 Cor 9:7) and "great confidence in" Him Who cannot be outgiven (2 Cor 3:4), let us "lavishly" (Ps 112:9) and "bountifully" (2 Cor 9:6) give our lives to God so that He will greatly increase.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 8, 2005

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