Monday November 4th: I scratch your back

“When you have a party, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind.”

Luke 14: 12-14

“Prepare a Sunday meal and invite to your home persons you would not have normally chosen.” A former Parish Priest set us this challenge as we prepared to celebrate the patronal feast of St Martin de Porres, noted for his love for the poor. This was probably one of the most enlightening and enriching events we ever embarked on as a community. Very often, the poor and destitute, even if considered, are sometimes relegated a place outside our social circle. Recipients of handouts, yes; but to mix and mingle with us? Hardly likely!
In today’s Gospel passage Jesus is in direct opposition to the “I scratch your back, you scratch mine” mindset where the interest is in reciprocity. The presence of highfalutin invitees enhances our affair and there is also the expectation that they will return the ‘honor.’ On the other hand, selfless inclusion of the disenfranchised on our guest list is a sign of loving consideration.
Lord Jesus, help us to mirror your all-inclusive love, expecting nothing in return. Amen.