Today’s reflection follows the Thanksgiving holiday for many in the United States. It’s fitting a fitting reminder the sense that, in recognizing this day, we joined family and friends in thanks for all that we cherish—and we shared thanks with others.

Our Gospel today, encourages us to consider what really matters. When our journey is over, what are we left with? What will we be judged by? For Jesus, the answer is in our treatment towards others, especially our brothers and sisters in need.

Jesus tells his disciples, “Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.”

As faithful followers, we have much to look forward to in the coming weeks. We’re quickly approaching first Sunday of Advent and a beloved season of joy and giving. While we anticipate the festivities that make this season so special, let us keep Jesus’ reminder close to our hearts.

This season, join us at CMMB in extending our hands to the hungry, the thirsty, the stranger, and all those who are in need.