Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church
Readings: 2 Cor 1:18-22; Ps 119:129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 135; Mt 5:13-16
Notes: In our first reading today, Saint Paul describes how although his plans have changed in terms of time, sequence and location, the divine plans will never change in terms of divine love and the Father’s commitment to spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ.
There are any number of reasons our plans change.
The list, if we made one, would be endless!
But with a cheerful heart and trust in the Lord the divine plan for our lives continues forward.
You are salt and light, says the Lord.
How our salt and light help this broken world is the Lord’s decision to make.
When plans change take heed what Jesus is saying.
How you handle difficulty and stress is illuminated by the Light.
If you do good works and act rightly before man and G-d, regardless of the obstacles, then … your light shines before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.
Circumstances changed?
Change the plan.
And know G-d is glorified in your peacefulness.
Reflection
Anthony should be the patron of those who find their lives completely uprooted and set in a new and unexpected direction. Like all saints, he is a perfect example of turning one’s life completely over to Christ. God did with Anthony as God pleased—and what God pleased was a life of spiritual power and brilliance that still attracts admiration today. He whom popular devotion has nominated as finder of lost objects found himself by losing himself totally to the providence of God.
FranciscanMedia: https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-anthony-of-padua/
First Reading
For however many are the promises of God, their Yes is in him; therefore, the Amen from us also goes through him to God for glory.
Responsorial
Lord, let your face shine on me.
Steady my footsteps according to your promise, and let no iniquity rule over me.
Gospel Acclamation
Let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.
Gospel
Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry