Below is a summary of the homily of Most Rev. Socrates B. Villegas, D.D. delivered on June 11, 2021 in celebration of ACN International Benefactor’s Day.
The Gospel details how Jesus spent the last moment of His life until he was taken down from the cross. However, little is known about He was dressed at the crucifixion. Looking at the millions of images, one can deduce that He wore swaddling clothes.
What is the significance of swaddling clothes?
In those days, a lamb born perfect and without spots is wrapped with swaddling clothes. This is the lamb that will be offered to the Lord. Therefore, swaddling clothes are not for making babies comfortable as we do today – it symbolizes being chosen to become the sacrifical lamb to be spresented in the temple.
What does it say to us?
Jesus Christ on the cross, wrapped in swaddling clothes, is the top benefactor of the papal foundation Aid to the Church in Need because He gave us God. In giving God, He did not leave anything for Himself.
Therefore, the best benefactor is not just the one who writes a cheque, or builds a chapel or a shrine. It is not the one who gave the highest monetary value, but the one who keeps nothing for himself.