By Leonard A. Francisco
Engaging in social and pastoral apostolate is more than just an activity—it’s a profound invitation to transform our hearts and learn to love as Christ does. It’s an opportunity to find God in all things, where every act of service becomes a moment to encounter the divine, a chance to reflect His love to the world.
The Challenge of Intentions in the Social Media Age
In today’s digital world, social media often highlights charitable acts like feeding programs or other forms of assistance. These posts may inspire, but they also invite us to pause and ask ourselves: Are we moved by genuine compassion, or are we seeking validation through likes and shares?
Take a moment to reflect on trends we see online—like disguised content creators rewarding unsuspecting helpers or showcasing vulnerable individuals for viral moments. These actions may bring temporary relief, but they challenge us to look deeper: Why do I serve? Is my service rooted in love for God and others, or am I seeking recognition for myself?
Discernment: The Path to Genuine Service
St. Ignatius of Loyola teaches us the importance of discernment—the need to prayerfully examine our motivations and align them with God’s will. True service isn’t about seeking personal gain, but about honoring God’s glory. The essence of Ignatian spirituality calls us to serve with:
- Magnanimity: Offering more than what is expected, with generosity in spirit.
- Humility: Acknowledging that all good works come from God’s grace.
- Cura Personalis: Seeing Christ in every person we encounter, recognizing their inherent dignity.
Let’s remember that genuine service is not about creating viral moments but about being present, walking alongside others with love. This presence brings fulfillment and joy that no social media reaction can match.
A Lesson in Genuine Love
I am reminded of a lesson from my childhood—a time when my father had passed away, and life was a struggle. Often, I went to school without pocket money, and my classmates would share their food with me. One day, my teacher noticed and arranged for me to have a meal every recess. She paid for it herself, never seeking recognition or praise.
At that time, I didn’t fully understand why she did it, but I was deeply grateful. As I grew older, I realized the significance of her actions. She wasn’t seeking anything in return—she simply acted out of love and compassion. Her quiet, selfless generosity taught me the meaning of true service, and her example continues to inspire me today.
As we engage in our own apostolate, let’s remember that genuine service is not about recognition but about being present with others, walking with them in love, and seeing Christ in them.
Love in Deeds, Not Words
As St. Ignatius reminds us, “Love ought to manifest itself more by deeds than by words.” Our service should flow from a heart transformed by God’s love, one that seeks to glorify Him by loving others selflessly.
Whether public or private, the goal of our actions remains the same: to reflect Christ’s love and bring His joy into the world.
A Call to Reflect and Act
As we engage in our apostolic work, let us ask ourselves: How is my heart being transformed through service? Are we serving to bring glory to God or seeking personal affirmation? May our apostolic efforts be a true expression of God’s love—because it is in serving others that we truly encounter Him.
Lord,
We thank You for the gift of service and the opportunity to share Your love with others. We ask for Your guidance as we navigate the world of social media, where intentions can be blurred by the desire for recognition and validation. Help us to discern Your will in all that we do and to serve with a heart that reflects Your love and compassion.
Grant us the wisdom to act selflessly, the humility to seek Your glory, and the courage to love without seeking praise. May our actions be a true reflection of Your presence in our lives, and may we serve others as Christ did—without expectation, but with a heart full of grace.
Through the intercession of St. Ignatius of Loyola, we pray for the strength to discern our motivations and align them with Your divine will.
Amen.
Society of Jesus' social apostolate 