Hey, God, what about us!

     Moses was chosen by God to stand for the people and lead them from the bondage of Egypt through the sea and the journey to the promised land.  He was a reluctant leader.  God placed Aaron as his spokesman, and Miriam was part of that supportive family that helped him do his appointed task.  And God was pleased.

     But Moses was getting all the credit.  He was the one that conversed with God on the mountain.  He was the one whose face shown with glory.  He was the one who laid out the Law and called the people to a commitment to the covenant.  He was the center of attention.  And boy, were these two jealous.  They wanted their due also.

     In Numbers (Nm 12: 1 - 13) today they started to speak against Moses, trying to tarnish his image.  After all, he had his flaws and weaknesses.  Why should he get all the attention?  And God got upset!  He called them together and made it clear that he was in charge, and that Moses was his spokesperson, "throughout my house he bears my trust: face to face I speak to him; plainly and not in riddles.  The presence of the LORD he beholds."

     So angry was the LORD against them that when he departed, Mariam was a snow-white leper.  Aaron turned to Moses for mercy, and Moses interceded with God on their behalf.

     Do we seek to be noticed?  Are we clamoring for attention?  Do we want our due?  Or is it enough to do what God asks of us and be a part of his plan.  I would rather be known to the heart of God than to be exalted before others.  The recognition that is given by God is enough for me.

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     I was watching the opening ceremonies of the 129th annual convention of the Knights of Columbus taking place in Denver this week.  It is being covered in part by EWTN.

    The Supreme Knight, Carl Anderson, was giving the "state of the union" presentation, and, not surprisingly, I was overwhelmed by the statistics given that reflect the deep Faith and commitment of my brother Knights.   The Knights are found around the world, serving as an international organization.  Membership is up for the 40th consecutive year, with members numbering 1,816,826 in 14,174 Councils.  The total amount monetarily that was contributed to charitable works last year by the K of C was nearly $155 million.  In addition, brother Knights donated over 70 million hours of service around the globe this year alone.  Within the past ten years, those service hours totaled 653 million hours.  Outstanding work and wonderful Catholic witness to the Faith lived well. 

     I have been a Knight of Columbus since 1975.  If you are a Knight, you know what a great group of men they are.  If you are not, check out a local Council and get info on this Catholic Fraternal Organization.  It will be worth your while.