Memorial of Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop, Martyrs
Intention: That the darkness of stigma, exclusion, and marginalization might be dispelled by the light of understanding, acceptance, and respect for the dignity of every person.
Today’s Gospel | Luke 7:31-35
Jesus said to the crowds: “To what shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? They are like children who sit in the marketplace and call to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, but you did not dance. We sang a dirge, but you did not weep.’
For John the Baptist came neither eating food nor drinking wine, and you said, ‘He is possessed by a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking and you said, ‘Look, he is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is vindicated by all her children.”
From the Meditation on Saint Cyprian | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
(Saint Cyprian) displayed admirable zeal for the instruction of his people, and he had, above all, a special care for the poor. When people make themselves voluntarily poor to imitate Jesus Christ, they also love, as he did, those whom God has made poor.
Every day you have poor children to instruct. Love them tenderly, as this saint did, following in this the example of Jesus Christ. Prefer them to those who are not poor, for Jesus Christ does not say that the Gospel is preached to the rich but to the poor. These poor children are also the ones whom God has entrusted to you and to whom you are obliged to proclaim the truths of the holy Gospel. The poor were the ones who most frequently followed Jesus Christ, our Lord. They are also the ones most disposed to profit by his teaching, because in them it meets with fewer external obstacles.
Prayer
Eternal Father, in times of trouble we call out to you, for we know you will answer us. When hurt and suffering close in on us, let there be room in our hearts for faith. Dissolve our fears; renew within us the spirit of trust and peace. Bless us with your healing so that we can witness your light and love to others, especially those whose pain and trials are far greater than our own. We ask this of who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.