“Do Whatever He Tells You” (10/20/2025)

Saturday, I had the privilege of speaking to the women of our parish at a morning of reflection. The title given to my short presentation was “Go forth and do.” The earlier talks were on the gifts of womanhood and on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. My role was to send the women forth after a morning of reflection to “do” Christ’s bidding in the world.

The point of my talk was that Mary’s short proclamation to the servants at the wedding of Cana was “Do whatever He tells you.” I spoke briefly about the abundance that resulted when the servants did what Jesus said – 180 gallons of exceptional wine! Then I spoke about the word Mary used in Greek, ποιéω (poieō). This little word is huge because it has so many possible translations depending on the context. It is translated as:  do, make, produce, construct, form, fashion, cause, prepare, bear, shoot forth, perform, provide, execute, fulfill, commit, gain, give. What is Christ asking of us?

Each of us is unique. Each of us has our own role on “the Way” as we follow in Christ’s footsteps. And Christ calls upon each of us to participate in His ongoing salvific mission. The Spirit has equipped each of us uniquely. And it all comes together in time. What is it that we are being asked to “do” at this moment on our way? Are we to help build or make something? Are to help further a cause or equip others for the journey? Are we being asked to give of ourselves so that others might see Christ and follow Him? Are we the instruments Christ calls at this time to bear His peace to others?

We are all called. Christ speaks to us and calls us to His mission. Are we listening? Are we attentive to His calls? What is He asking of us this day, this moment?

After the talk, my sensitivities were raised to those who are answering Christ’s call. At Mass, I recognized welcomers, servers, lectors, musicians, and teachers. I watched as people arrived and saw parents, friends, and helpers. I opened our bulletin and saw a plethora of “invitations” to act. The need is great. How is each of us being asked to serve by doing? Is it prayer, service to the homebound, the meals for the hungry, hospitality at church, outreach in our neighborhoods, reading at the liturgy, joining the choir?

Each of us has a part to play in Christ’s ongoing mission here. Are we listening? What is He asking us to do?

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.