Our saint for today: Martin de Porres was born at Lima, Peru of a Spanish father and an African mother in 1579. As a boy he studied medicine which later as a member of the Dominican Order he put to good use in helping the poor. He was so noted for his kindness and gentleness with the sick and needy that he was called "Martin the Charitable." He led a humble and disciplined life, having great devotion both to Christ Crucified and the Blessed Sacrament. He found great strength in meditating and contemplating these great mysteries. Martin died in 1639, and was canonized by Pope John XXIII in 1962.
The first reading today from the letter of St. Paul to the Phillippians reflects the motivation for charitable living that comes from knowing that Christ is ever near to us. In a calm and positive atmosphere of prayer and thanksgiving we ought to always lead our brothers and sisters to what is true, and honorable, and just, and pure, and lovely, and gracious and excellent – so that the God of peace may be with us – in our minds and in our hearts and in our bodies.
The gospel passage reminds us that those live in God's presence most fully who love most – love God first – love brothers and sisters to prove love for God. Martin de Porres loved God very much, and he loved the brothers and sisters God gave him to minister to proving the depth of that love.
May we today experience God's love by loving, and support those who seek what is honorable, just, pure, lovely, gracious and excellent – so that the God of peace will be with us – in our minds and hearts – and that ourselves, our families and our country will be safe and secure!
No comments:
Post a Comment