Today’s Gospel reading is a prayer which occurred at the conclusion of Jesus’ Last Supper address to his disciples. In the prayer, Jesus expresses care and concern for his disciples and reaffirms his union with the father.

Jesus’ life and ministry were directed towards one purpose— to reveal the father, saying when He has accomplished this task in this world, He will then return to the Father and is glorified.

In today’s Gospel there is also a distinction made between the world and the disciples. The disciples are separate from the world because they have been given to Jesus.

Just as we pray for one another, Jesus prays for us and protects us with his prayers so that we may never fall away from God. We can always come to Jesus when we are in need and we rely on this connection

In our prayers, we rely on connections as well – people who can help us when we feel like our prayers are not enough.

We call these intercessions and the are opportunities to connect.

A healthcare worker serves a baby

Our work is built on connections: Connections to those we serve and the volunteers who serve them. Connections to the medical facilities we support and the local staff who work in them. Our connections to the corporations and organizations that help us bring resources to the field. And finally, our connection with donors like Hedwig.

Hedwig is a long-term CMMB monthly supporter whose background gives her special insight into the importance of providing hope, dignity, and care to people in impoverished parts of the world. We spoke with her recently about the importance – and the joy – of sharing what you have.

“Sometimes you get a little bit discouraged because you think, how much is your contribution going to be able to do. But if everyone gave a little, it would really add up. And I pray at night, saying, ‘Lord, let my contribution help somebody.’ I’m only one person, but one person has to do what they can. I always wish I could give more, so once in a while, I buy a lottery ticket. If I won, it would just be the greatest fun to make a big contribution.”

In grace and peace,

Bruce Wilkinson signature

Bruce Wilkinson

President & CEO, CMMB