Date: May 1, 2020 ()

Bible Text: First Reading: ACTS 9:1-20; Gospel: JN 6:52-59 |

Series:

Let us consecrate our lives to the service of God, like Paul, like the Holy Family.

If there’s one man during the apostolic times who was fully dedicated to his religion, Saul was the man. His Loyalty to the Law was such that He was breathing murderous threats against the disciples of the Lord whom he thought would be the destroyer of his religion. But in a single flash of lightning, the Lord changed Saul. The Light that struck him was so powerful that it vanquished every darkness and shadow in his heart. His eyes were impaired, unable now to see as though damaged and had only to be replaced.

The Lord gave him a new sight. And Paul had to learn to see with the help of a certain disciple of Jesus named Ananias. This time, Saul would not see things the old way. He would see things with the new eyes - the eyes of faith. And the Lord had the wisest strategy to change the course of things. He chose Paul, perhaps the most loyal, the most passionate, the most knowledgeable, maybe the best example of faithfulness to his religion. But, would this impossible move work? How can this man be changed from an executioner to an ambassador of Christ?

The Lord just said, “Go, for this man is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before Gentiles, kings, and children of Israel, and I will show him what he will have to suffer for my name.” And it came to be. Truly, there is nothing impossible with God.

Today is the feast day of our dear Patron of the Workers, St. Joseph. This feast extends the long relationship between Joseph and the cause of workers in both Catholic faith and devotion. Beginning in the Book of Genesis, the dignity of human work has long been celebrated as a participation in the creative work of God. By work, humankind both fulfills the command found in Genesis to care for the earth (Gn 2:15) and to be productive in their labors. Saint Joseph, the carpenter and foster father of Jesus, is but one example of the holiness of human labor.

In this time of great fear and anxiety - and the need of Motherly love and council - the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops plan to reconsecrate the USA to the Blessed Virgin Mother on May 1 at 3 p.m.!!

In whatever situation we are in, we realize that the Lord is always inviting us to a life of holiness and participation in His Divine Work. Let us consecrate our lives to the service of God, like Paul, like the Holy Family.