Monday, November 10, 2014, Pope St. Leo the Great Titus 1:1-9, Psalm 24:1-6, Luke 17:1-6 Link to Readings --> usccb.org/bible/readings/111014.cfm BLOOM WHERE YOURE PLANTED My purpose in leaving you in Crete was that you might accomplish what had been left undone... -Titus 1:5 Paul left Titus behind in Crete to minister to the Cretans. However, Cretans have ever been liars, beasts, and lazy gluttons (Ti 1:12). Paul probably didnt get too many resumes from candidates looking to get the job in Crete. Titus accepted the grace and faithfully established the foundations of the Church in Crete. After Jesus set a Gerasene man free from a legion of demons, He did not allow the man to accompany Him (Mk 5:18ff). Instead, Jesus sent him back to witness to his family. At that the man went off and began to proclaim throughout the Ten Cities - above and beyond what Jesus asked of him - what Jesus had done for him. They were all amazed at what they heard (Mk 5:20). Jesus refused Peters request to remain atop the Mount of Transfiguration amidst the scene of His glory (Mt 17:4ff). Instead, Peter had to keep quiet about this wonderful experience (Mk 9:9) and return to failure and rebuke down in the valley (Mk 9:18-19). By the Holy Spirit, Peter persevered and soon led three thousand people to Jesus in one day (Acts 2:41). Jesus may plant us in a sprawling weed patch (Mt 13:30). He often calls us to stay put (1 Tm 1:3) and walk by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7). Do whatever [Jesus] tells you (Jn 2:5). Remember that, in Jesus, you are the light of the world (Mt 5:14). Because of you, may the weeds one day testify: A people living in darkness has seen a great light. On those who inhabit a land overshadowed by death, light has arisen (Mt 4:16). Prayer: To do Your will, O my God, is my delight (Ps 40:9). Promise: If he sins against you seven times a day, and seven times a day turns back to you saying: I am sorry, forgive him. -Lk 17:4 Praise: Pope St. Leo preached life-changing sermons and called many to holiness. His sermons are still read today by the Church in the Liturgy of the Hours.
Posted on: Mon, 10 Nov 2014 12:58:39 +0000