Monday, August 20, 2018 – Memorial of St. Bernard
Readings: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/082018.cfm
Today, in Mercy, our Gospel tells us the story of a rich young man with a good and holy heart. He asked Jesus what he needed to do, beyond keeping the commandments, to become perfect in God’s sight.
Jesus tells him to sell what he has, give the proceeds to the poor, and follow Him. Apparently, this is too much for the man to accept and he goes away sad.
On the other hand, we have St. Bernard of Clairvaux whose feast we celebrate today. Bernard, too, had been a wealthy young man. Hearing Christ’s call to leave everything behind and follow Him, Bernard entered the Cistercian monastery.
He desired only to live a deeply contemplative life, but his many intellectual and spiritual gifts brought him significant roles in the broader life of the Church. Doctor of the Church, Abbot, Advisor of Popes, Reformer of Religious Life – any of these titles fit Bernard today.
But perhaps the title he would treasure most is the one he first pursued: Follower of Christ.
We do not need to be a monk or a nun to follow Jesus. We simply need to know where our true treasure lies, and to give everything for it.
Music: Follow Me – Casting Crowns
Thanks, Renee! There is always something that touches me in each reflection! ❤️🙏
LikeLiked by 1 person
Pingback: To follow Christ | Belgian Biblestudents - Belgische Bijbelstudenten
Pingback: Moses’ Psalm: Light and Dark – Lavish Mercy