There are many members of our parish who make significant contributions to the quality of our Christian witness and service, but who do so quietly and anonymously. I am reminded of one woman, now gone to her just reward, who would often press money into my hand and name a needy person to whom she wanted me to give it. She always insisted that I tell no one of her constant generosity to others. I also think of another man who seeks no praise for his service. Yet he is always ready to fix something at the church or in the home of a needy or elderly parishioner. When necessary, his car is always available to provide transportation. While he is known by those he helps, he wants no other recognition or acknowledgement. Still another wonderful woman is so poor and frail that she seems unlikely to be able to help anyone; and yet, her service may be the most sublime and valuable of all. She regularly calls me to ask for the names of those in our parish who are sick and suffering, and makes them a part of her unceasing prayers to God.

None of these people considers themselves qualified to preach a sermon or teach a Bible class. Yet, by the quality of their lives, they speak more eloquently about our Savior Jesus Christ than many a learned preacher or teacher. They represent a large number of the faithful who serve the Lord with devotion, but do so without public recognition or applause. Their only desire is to please God by serving others. St. Paul had such unnamed people in mind when he referred to "my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life." (Phil. 4:3).

If you are one of these special people, keep up the good work. Perhaps unknown to others, you are nonetheless known to God. Your service has pleased Him and you will be richly rewarded. In the meantime, the examples offered by these people are an invitation for us to join them; and to offer our own gifts to the service of God's kingdom. These gifts, no matter how seemingly insignificant, are used by God to transfigure the lives of giver and recipient alike. No gift offered to God is too small or too hidden to be used by him to accomplish great things.

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