Memorial of St. Anthony, Abbot
St. Anthony was one of the first Christians to embrace the monastic life as a way of removing anything in his life that did not draw him closer to God. He gave up his material possessions and practiced great penances so that the temptations of the world would hold no power over him. One of the most basic practices was retreating from the city to live as a hermit in the desert, seeking solitude for prayer and communion with God. No matter how far away he moved, people would seek him out for advice because they recognized his holiness and wisdom, attributes that he gained through the grace of his ascetic life.
Jesus, too, occasionally sought solitude for prayer. Our Gospel today, however, speaks of the crowds taking up all the space where he was so that those who sought healing could not approach him. The people wanted to be close to him because they recognized his holiness and power, just as Anthony was visited in the desert. Furthermore, Anthony, like Jesus, did not resent those who came to him but recognized that they were in need and were seeking God’s presence. Both Jesus and Anthony welcomed those who came to them, were hospitable to their needs, and blessed them with their presence.
Reflection by Fr. Victor Schinstock, OSB
Posted in Articles for Ordinary Time, Daily Reflections