There was a monk who possessed a valuable gemstone. During his travels, he met a beggar who asked for help. Rather than just food and water, the monk presented him with the jewel. The pauper was filled with gratitude.
The gift would allow him to care for his family for many years. But the following day, he warily returned the precious gift to the monk. He explained, “I appreciate your generosity, but I really want whatever it is that you have that encouraged you to give me this stone.”
With a heartfelt reflection, the monk simply replied, “It is love.”
Rev. Monsignor Frank J. Giroir began his homily with this story at the recent wedding of Aileen Livaudais and Jason Dorgant in the Academy of the Sacred Heart Chapel.
– Betsie Gambel, Gambel Communications