The Memorial of St Vincent De Paul

The Memorial of St Vincent De Paul

By REV. FR. SAMUEL FREDERICK

Hag. 1:15-2:9, Lk. 9:18-22. Instead of Haggai to banish the painful memories of the past, he puts those memories to good use as presented in today's first reading. To revive their courage, he recalls Israel’s early days of dedication and achievement, their joy to receive the Covenant and during the glorious reigns of David and Solomon. After the tragedy of exile and the austere years that followed, God inspired in Haggai this cry of messianic hope. We can also be blessed with spiritual insight if we are patient through suffering and persevere in hope. In the same vain, Jesus enjoins us in today's Gospel to persevere in moment of sufferings and challenges that we may encounter. He did not mince words when He asked His disciples two questions: “Who do people say I am?” and “Who do you say I am?”

The first question was a general one and easy enough to answer; the second was much more personal and more demanding. It is easier to guess what Jesus means to people in general; it however, takes a little more reflection to say what Jesus means to us on a personal level. Jesus wants us to express our personal faith in Him because what we think of Him influences our personal faith response. Today, we are challenged to draw closer to Jesus as friends walk with friends. If we recognise Jesus as our Saviour and friend, we will collaborate with Him and be more committed to Him. St Vincent de Paul (1581 - 1660) whose memorial we celebrate lived as friend of Christ in his loving care for the poor. He was born in Aquitaine and became a priest. He founded a congregation of priests for missionary work, group of laymen to help paupers and galley-slaves, and, with St Louise de Marillac, formed the Sisters of Charity.

May the Lord bless us with every good gift, so that we can always live our life for the care of the poor! Amen!! Good morning and have a great day!!!

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