Memorial of Saints John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs
Intention: For all who seek roles of leadership and advocacy in society, that their hearts and minds will be open to God’s wisdom and guidance.
Today’s Gospel | Luke 12:39-48
Jesus said to his disciples: “Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”
Then Peter said, “Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?” And the Lord replied, “Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master will put in charge of his servants to distribute the food allowance at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. Truly, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, then that servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish the servant severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful. That servant who knew his master’s will but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will shall be beaten severely; and the servant who was ignorant of his master’s will but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating shall be beaten only lightly. Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”
From the Meditation on Saint Peter of Alcantara | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Poverty ought to be so dear to you that you practice it in all things, with the result that as you hold on to nothing but God, you find in God what cannot be found in creatures. In this way you will be able to receive from God the fullness of grace, both for you and for others, especially the love of the poor and the zeal you need to bring them completely to God.
Prayer
Eternal Father, Jesus taught us that we must live with minds and hearts that are awake because we can never know when you will surprise us with your grace or with your call. We pray that we will ready ourselves by living with faith and integrity. Help us to build your Kingdom through our care and vigilance for one another, especially those most in need. We ask this of who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.