Imagine a World

I wanted to take a moment this week and share with you a powerful quote from the founder of Mission Doctors, Monsignor Anthony Brouwers, “Many do not know the needs of the world’s poverty; some do not care. Others know but refuse to lift a finger or open a tight purse. The present writer, on journeys through the mission lands, has had the privilege of rubbing shoulders with the reality of poverty. To see it in all its stark realism is not enough; one must smell and touch it before the mind drinks in the realities of the senses.”

His ability to help those of us here in the US understand the reality of the needs has called many of us to join in the work of Mission Doctors Association. It is true, that the needs in the Africa and Latin America are difficult to imagine while sitting at our computer screen in a warm home or office. It is my charge however, as a missionary myself, returned home, to share these needs with others and to encourage prayers and support.

Imagine a world where all needs of the poor are met. We can imagine this one patient at a time. Click this link to view a Mission Doctors video. You can meet our doctors serving and learn about the real needs that exist.

Beatitudes

This Sunday we will hear the beautiful and familiar Sermon on the Mount, the Gospel reading that gives us the Beatitudes. These Beatitudes are a hopeful message of God’s love and gives us the template against which we can hold our actions.

Am I poor in spirit, meek, merciful, pure of heart, am I a peacemaker?
Do I hunger and thirst for righteousness and am I willing to be persecuted for it?

The dedicated doctors and their families that serve in the missions are indeed poor in spirit living simply for the sake of their faithful service. And sadly, due to limited resources they have far too many opportunities to mourn at the bedside of a patient.

At times faced with the inequities they experience, I know they have a deep hunger for a remedy that would address the underlying injustices.

Matthew goes on beyond the Beatitudes quoting Jesus "You are the light of the world." "...your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father."

The good that is done by Mission Doctors is a form of this light, may others may see the good and give glory to God!

How are you finding ways to live the Beatitudes and be the light of the world?