Memorial of St. John Neumann, Bishop

Today's Mass Readings

We are all probably familiar with the phrase, “blood is thicker than water.” Typically, it means that family comes first. We are willing to support and protect family before anything else, even our own comfort.

This week we have been reflecting on what it means to be sons and daughters of God, and today is no different. If we are indeed sons and daughters of God, then we are indeed brothers and sisters—family. I do not want to suggest that our blood family is no longer important, but rather that the support and protection for whom we care must extend beyond them. As Christians, we are called to heroic charity.

Let us never refuse compassion for our brothers and sisters so we can all rejoice in God’s kingdom.

Reflection by Fr. Etienne Huard, OSB