While Jesus challenges us to be generous to the poor and serve them with our whole heart, sometimes it isn't easy to fulfill this command. Some people experience fear or disgust disgust when they encounter others in need, and try to avoid them at all costs.
Whatever our feelings may be, we can't let them stand in the way of the Gospel mandate to serve those who are poor.
St. Vincent de Paul wrote about this feeling in a letter that is featured in the Church's Office of Readings.
We must see Jesus in the poor and remind ourselves that whenever we serve the poor, we are serving Jesus.
The best way to overcome feelings of fear or disgust is to pray to God and ask him for help.
St. Vincent de Paul explains the need for divine grace in serving the poor.
If we are lacking in compassion for the poor, we must pray to God that compassion will fill our hearts.
