Online talks
Join us online for inspiring talks about the work you support around the world and how it helps to transform lives.
Young people at the Catholic youth conference Flame discuss the work of CAFOD
The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.
Jesus despairs of the crowd. He wonders aloud what description he can use for this generation who have seen and heard John the Baptist and Christ himself, but who are still struggling to believe.
If Jesus came today, would we be willing and ready to believe in him if he appeared before us? Or would we dismiss him as a drunkard, delusional, too political or even not holy enough?
This gospel shows us that God’s presence in the world may not always look the way we expect.
It also reminds us that Jesus spent time with ordinary people. All kinds of people. He sat down and ate and drank with them. He mixed with those on the margins of society, breaking bread with them and building relationships.
In his very first speech from the balcony of St Peter’s on the day of his election, Pope Leo XIV reminded us of the importance of this, saying:
“Help us, one and all, to build bridges through dialogue and encounter, uniting us all to be one people always in peace.”
We consider then how we can make time for others in our divided world through listening and trying to recognise the good in each other, despite our differences. As we engage with those who are isolated or alone, who are usually ignored or marginalised, we can gain a better understanding of each other’s needs, hopes and concerns.
As we wait for the coming of Christ, we seek to recognise him in every person that we meet.
Advent prayer
God of all,
open our hearts to one another,
especially to those who differ from us,
so that we may be transformed
by a deeper encounter with you
in every person we meet.
Amen.
Act
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