Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Priest
The stories of the saints are filled with fascinating details and interesting anecdotes. They sometimes include how the individual first came to faith, turning away from an old way of life and now following a new way, a new path that opened vast new horizons to them. Sometimes there were stories of people who were already faith-filled and now experienced a deepening of the call to respond with greater intention and a radical expression of love and commitment. St. Paul is an example of someone who was considered a man of faith, deep faith in his Hebrew heritage. He was a Pharisee whose devotion to Judaism led him to persecute those who were followers of Jesus. It was the event on the road to Damascus and the voice he heard that changed his life and sent him in a new direction. After spending time learning about Jesus and who he was, he began visiting the various churches throughout the territory and writing the epistles praising them and encouraging them to commit themselves to live as faithful followers of Jesus Christ. The holy martyrs are another example.
In another era, we learn about St. Ignatius of Loyola, whom we commemorate today. He began his life as a soldier, and during one battle he suffered a broken leg. As he lay, slowing, waiting for the bone to heal, he asked for some reading material. All that was available was the life of Jesus and several lives of the saints. God used these texts to inspire Ignatius, and after his healing, he abandoned the military life and took up a life that eventually led to priesthood and the spread of the Gospel. Several of his religious brothers joined him and so began the Society of Jesus. I include the prayer of St. Ignatius, the Suscipe.
Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty
My memory, my understanding and my entire will.
All I have and call my own.
You have given all to me. To you Lord, I return it.
Everything is yours; do with it what you will.
Give me only your love and your grace.
That is enough for me.
Reflection by Fr. Martin DeMeulenaere, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections