From Fr V. Zammit McKeon

Our post-modern society honours those who have talents, riches, power, beauty or intelligence. In particular, the world around us worships fame: people – we are no exception – are fascinated by news about celebrities, some of whom seem to be famous for no special reason. Yet a very special and unique person, who happens to be the Son of God, Jesus Christ, teaches us that in his Father’s Kingdom “the last will be first, and the first last” (Matthew 20:16)

We, believers or not, all need to consider how we judge the value of other people. We judge too easily by the world’s criteria as to who is valuable and important. Jesus, however, is incessantly calling us to another way. He himself spent time with the poor and outcasts, and today He is inviting us to do the same. In God's sight every human person is of equal value, regardless of his or her capabilities, health or status in society. The Gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us not just to change how we look at others, but also how we act in their presence and with their lives. It is useless saying we value those who are poor and needy if we do nothing to help them. If we are against the idea of inviting someone to dinner, then how much do we really care about that particular individual?

Inviting people to a meal is not just a matter of offering them food. There are many ways and means in which we can help feed the hungry without ever going near them: it is much harder to love people enough to sit down and dine with them. Jesus Christ was harshly criticised by some of his fellow countrymen because He invited himself and sat at table with unjust tax collectors and sinners.

Eating with people symbolises that a bond has been created between few or many persons: if we then have a meal with those who are marginalised then we are accepting them in a group. Usually, inviting people to dinner is part of a social network: even among friends, we expect people to reciprocate our invitations and may be offended when they do not. We also use invitations as a status symbol: whom we invite to dinner, and who invites us, shows our level of importance in society. Jesus' way goes beyond all this. He wants us to do good to others with no reward or hope of being repaid, but simply out of love and compassion.

It is very easy today to judge others by worldly standards. We need help and light from above to love the poor, the needy, the lonely, the homeless and the dying not just by giving them food, money, clothing or shelter, but by making ourselves available to spend time with them and showing them they are valued.

Victor Zammit McKeon

Chairperson

Charity Week Committee 2005