Memorial of Saint Irenaeus, Bishop and Martyr
Intention: In thanksgiving for the faith and zeal of all of the Brothers and Partners of our District.
Today’s Gospel | Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will know them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits you will know them.”
From the Seventh Meditation for the Time of Retreat | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
This is also what ought to engage you to have an altogether special esteem for the Christian instruction and education of children, because it is a means to help them become true children of God and citizens of heaven. This is the very foundation and support of their piety and of all the other good that takes place in the Church.
Thank God for the grace he has given you in your work of sharing in the ministry of the holy Apostles and the principal bishops and pastors of the Church. Honor your ministry by becoming, as Saint Paul says, worthy ministers of the New Testament.
Prayer
Eternal Father, through your grace, we are able to open our hearts and be instruments of your presence to others. May we have the courage and humility not to squander our chances to reach out to one another every day. Nourish us to wholeness and strength in you, and may we live and serve as your fruit, as builders of your Kingdom. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.