Saint of the Day
St. Agnes
Agnes of Rome (c. 291–304) was a young Christian girl, said to be about twelve years old, who was martyred during the Diocletianic persecution. According to tradition, she refused to marry the son of a Roman prefect, declaring that she had consecrated her virginity to Christ. After attempts to force her into a brothel miraculously failed, she was beheaded. Her name resembles the Latin agnus (lamb), making her a symbol of innocent sacrifice, and she is depicted with a lamb in Christian art. She is patron of girls, chastity, and victims of sexual abuse.
Scripture Reading
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Reflection
Paul is not painting a portrait of romantic feeling but of costly, active commitment — the kind that must be chosen each morning. Patience, kindness, keeping no record of wrongs: these are not automatic. They are the ordinary daily work of love. Ordinary time is filled with opportunities to practice each clause of this description, usually with the same people, in the same rooms, day after day.
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank you that I am never alone, your presence calms the troubled sea of my life and speaks peace to my soul. Your word says that my faith will never be put to shame when my trust is in you. Hear my prayer as I ask for comfort in dealing with the loss of my loved one. Help me to find strength and peace in your presence. Restore joy to my soul. Lord, bless me and keep me, make your face shine upon me. Turn your face towards me and give me peace. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Amen.