The of St Aloysius of Gonzaga

Sometimes the Sermon on the Mount clashes with something in the letters of St Paul and in particular with his occasional tendency to boast about what he has achieved. In today's first reading, Paul gets caught up in a confusing whirlwind of boasting: “Since many are bragging, I too will boast." Paul recounted the many difficulties and challenges that he experienced throughout his missionary journeys to many places and cities throughout the Eastern Mediterranean region. In his early life, as a member of the Pharisees, he wielded great influence and could have enjoyed such a prestigious life, respected and honoured by those who were in power. He could have avoided all the sufferings, pains and difficulties, instead he placed his treasure in Heaven as Jesus enjoins in today's Gospel.

Instead, Paul sought the true treasure that is far more precious and better than those treasures of the world. For none of these treasures could last forever: they were illusory and temporary in nature at best. Today, we celebrate the memorial of another saint, whose life can also be an inspiration for us, in how he dedicated himself to the Lord, in seeking Him as the treasure of his life. St Aloysius Gonzaga was born into the noble Italian Gonzaga family and therefore was rightfully going to inherit his family’s position and fortune, title and power, only for him to shun them by choosing the path of commitment and dedication to God.

May the Lord help those in pain to know that the Father cares for them and give His Spirit to those who thirst for Him! Amen!! Good morning and have a glorious day!!!