CELEBRATING ST BERNARD: Ezk. 24:15-24, Mt. 19:16-22.
By REV. FR. SAMUEL FREDERICK
After blessing the children, Jesus set out, when a rich young man came and knelt before Him, saying, "Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Through this encounter, Jesus teaches us that true discipleship entails 'self-emptying'. The young man faithfully followed all the commandments of God but rejected the personal sacrificial aspect of the commandments.
Like the young man, some of us are not ready to go extra miles in working for God or making sacrifice for the good of others. Today, we are invited to empty ourselves for the sake of others. St Bernard of Clairvaux (1090 - 1153) whose memorial we celebrate is a model of one who gave up all that he had as taught by Jesus; by not allowing earthly possessions to take possession of his life. Bernard was born near Dijon, in France, in 1090, to a noble family but abandoned everything and followed the way of great holiness and wisdom. His life teaches us how to develop trust in the security of God than in man.
May the Lord heed to the anguish of those who are distressed and help us to serve faithfully the communities in whose life we share! Amen!! Good morning and have a productive and spirit fulfilled week!!!
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