(MEMORIAL OF ST ELIZABETH OF HUNGARY, RELIGIOUS)
2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31; Psalm 17; Luke 19:11-28
The first reading presents us with the martyrdom of seven sons and their mother on account of their refusal to perform the rites declared by the pagan king. They stood their ground regardless of the death penalty. Are there Christians who can still stand their ground in the face of death? How do we embrace the challenges of our faith? The Gospel reading speaks of the gifts we have been given. These gifts are not to be buried, misused or abused. God wants us to be productive with the various gifts we have received. In the Gospel, the salve with one talent acted out of fear and buried his talent. Fear is a destructive factor in our Christian faith. Fear attacks our potentials and renders us improbable, helpless and feeble. Are we ready to exercise faith over fear? Today the Church celebrates the memorial of St. Elizabeth of Hungary, a mother of three who faced her faith bravely at the death of her husband Louis. She became a Third Order Franciscan and devoted her life to the poor and the sick. She died at the age of twenty-four. Young in years but rich in good works. God help us!!!
LET US PRAY
O God, by whose gift Saint Elizabeth of Hungary recognized and revered Christ in the poor, grant, through her intercession, that we may serve with unfailing charity the needy and those afflicted. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
