Growing up I was taught that doing good for others was good. This message resonated with me and awakened my passion for service. I pursued a career in human service which initially led to social work for the State of Washington. I was inexperienced but excited to be in a profession that served the needy. It was late afternoon on Christmas Eve and the workers were in a hurry to get home to their families. My last client for the evening was a frail and elderly lady with a walker. She only wanted food while she waited for her food stamps. A block away from our office we had a food bank for emergencies like this. It was late and everyone was leaving so I called the food bank and asked them to please stay open until we arrived. I offered to walk with her and make sure the food bank was still open. There was very little food left, she selected a few canned items, bread, fruit and candy. She did not have a means to carry her groceries on her walker. It was dark and cold, so I offered to drive her home. She lived in an apartment building about eight blocks away. She was very grateful for the ride. In the spirit of Christmas, I offered to carry her groceries to her room. She lived alone in a small room with modest furniture and dim lighting. By the door she had a small table for her Christmas tree, a two-foot, end of a branch from a nearby spruce tree. Her Christmas tree was decorated with candy paper and chewing gum wrappers. She quickly put her new candy and fruit under the tree. She was so happy and with a big smile she clapped her hands like a little girl. I was so deeply moved by her joy and gratitude. I felt happiness, sadness, and excitement all at once and how I wished that I could do more. This emotional and personal experience was my initial discovery of the rich and true reward that comes from the unity of compassion and good deeds “JOY”.
In the Eucharist Christ does not come from above, but from within it strengthens our interior life with kindness and compassion. It quickens our hands to serve and gives us the desire to do more. The Holy Eucharist is the inspiration for my passion in human service.