As Advent comes to a conclusion in preparation for the celebration of the Savior’s birth, take a moment to reflect on the countless individuals and groups who do so much good for so many people without any hint of recognition.

The parish and Catholic organizations that collect toys and gifts this time of year should be commended, but don’t forget that so many people have such great needs after Christmas and throughout the year that tend to be ignored.

For the poor and downtrodden who are struggling with the burdens of life, a Christmas gift is a wonderful gesture, particularly for the children. More important to them, though, are things that most of us take for granted – paying the rent and utilities, owning a car, buying groceries, having adequate clothing, staying warm.

Mary and Joseph knew what it was like to be transient and poor. When they searched for a place where Our Lady could give birth to the Child Jesus, they ended up in a smelly, dirty barn. 

Manger scenes help create an image in our minds of the Holy Family’s surroundings in Bethlehem. However, creches are a sanitized version of what really took place on the day that changed the world more than 2,000 years ago.

Most barns or stables where animals are kept reek of manure and are filled with dust and flies. They’re nothing like the sterilized, sanitized hospital delivery rooms where most babies today see the light of day for the first time.

Keep this image in mind – that the infant Jesus was laid in a livestock feeding trough after His entrance into the world – to provide a perspective on the type of humility that humanity needs to one day, God willing, reach heaven.

Servant of God Father John Hardon, S.J., often said that no one can be humble without being humiliated. One would think that Mary and Joseph might have felt humiliated when they were turned away from the inn at their hour of need, but they realized that they were carrying out God’s plan in His kingdom on earth.

Humble service might not bring earthly recognition or rewards, but God sees everything, and He must be pleased when He sees volunteers serving the needy. 

“And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:40)

The members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul conference at Corning St. Bernard Church, which was closed by the diocese in October, serve as a shining example of individuals humbly doing their part to serve the less fortunate.

Their weekly food distribution impacts countless lives in Perry County, where poverty is evident and the people are struggling to find gainful employment.

Most of the St. Vincent de Paul conference members in Corning are retired and could be home taking it easy. They could have suspended their outreach when the church was closed as part of the Real Presence Real Future initiative.

Instead, they use their time once a week to prepare and bag groceries and carry them to the vehicles of appreciative recipients waiting in a pickup line while kindly interacting with the people as if they see the face of Christ in everyone. 

This faithful group, like countless others throughout the diocese, carries out God’s work in relative obscurity. 

No monetary rewards. No commendations. No pats on the back. Just the satisfaction of trying to practice the corporal works of mercy.

Not everyone is physically capable or has the financial blessings to perform public acts of generosity. Powerful graces also flow from the spiritual works of mercy, especially praying for the poor, the incarcerated, the sick and the dying.

If you’re a shut-in or dealing with an ailment that keeps you at home, take consolation in knowing your prayers and fasting will bring unimaginable benefits to many souls. The Lord hears your prayers.