Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop
Intention: That the darkness of stigma, exclusion, and marginalization might be dispelled by the light of compassion, respect, and welcome for every person as a child of God.
Today’s Gospel | Luke 14: 1, 7-11
On a sabbath Jesus went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully.
He told a parable to those who had been invited, noticing how they were choosing the places of honor at the table. “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor.
A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him, and the host who invited both of you may approach you and say, ‘Give your place to this man,’ and then you would proceed with embarrassment to take the lowest place. Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place so that when the host comes to you he may say, ‘My friend, move up to a higher position.’ Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
From Meditation on Saint Charles Borromeo | Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Detachment from riches and from the comforts of life is one of the first dispositions we must have to belong entirely to God and to work for the salvation of souls. This was also the first thing that Jesus Christ required of his holy Apostles and what they inspired in the first Christians.
If you wish, then, to be worthy to be employed in the salvation of souls, be detached from everything, and the grace of God will be given to you in abundance, not only for you but also for others. Say, as it is written in Genesis, Give me souls, and take all the rest for you. In other words, dispose of all the rest as you please, because, except for your holy love and the salvation of souls, I am indifferent to all the rest.
Prayer
Eternal Father, in our lives we must decide how best to answer your call to use the gifts that you have given to us. At times, we can become confused and think that the best fruit of our labor is the recognition that it brings to us. Your Son called us to live as servants, doing your will for the sake of your Kingdom and not to gain glory for ourselves. Help us to accept your wisdom and to trust in your ways. May strive only to serve, living with humility, simplicity, and generosity. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.