Memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus, Bishops
Today’s passage from the Gospel of St. Mark was the basis for Abraham Lincoln’s famous “House Divided” speech. Differences are not necessarily a bad thing; the Spirit bestows a variety of gifts to all of us. However, these gifts are for the common good and for the building up of the one body of Christ. If that ultimate purpose is forgotten, the House will not be able to stand.
St. Paul was well aware of the divisions within the early Christian communities. He would preach and establish a community. Then he would spread the Good News to other places. Unfortunately, divisions often formed in previous communities due to jealousy, arrogance, or misunderstandings. He encouraged those he sent to those places, such as Timothy and Titus, to stir into flame the Gift of God that they received. They were to set aright what remained to be done and to bear their share of hardship for the Gospel and for the common faith.
Let us pray for our priests and for our parishes.
Reflection by Br. Jacob Kubajak, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections