Reflections of Caritas

“Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.” – Hebrews 11:1 

Around the year 64 A.D. a great fire broke out in Rome, destroying much of the city. Rumors were spreading just as fast as the flames that the Emperor Nero himself had started the blaze. He needed a scapegoat, and who better to blame than the loathsome outlaws known as Christians?

“Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.” – Colossians 3:2 

A few weeks ago, on the Fourth of July, the United States of America celebrated Independence Day. To commemorate our nation’s 240^th birthday, people across the country reveled in the customary festivities. Of all the traditions, fireworks may perhaps be most well associated with this holiday.

“And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”  – Luke 11:9-10 

As a child I wanted to be a professional athlete. I imagined scoring touchdowns for the Green Bay Packers and hitting home runs for the Milwaukee Brewers. (As you might guess, I’m a fan of Wisconsin sports teams!) I dreamed of hoisting the championship trophy as the crowd cheered my name.

“Jesus entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed him. She had a sister named Mary who sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak.” – Luke 10:38-39

A little more than a year ago my wife and I were blessed with the opportunity to travel to Uganda along with Christopher Hoar, the Founder/President of CARITAS For Children. We had the privilege of staying with the Little Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi and spending time with many of the CARITAS children who attend their schools. Our trip was truly a lesson in hospitality.