"No one can serve two masters." Mt 6:24
Today's Gospel immediately begins with a short yet powerful reminder for all that the Church's members have one God, one Master, despite what the world may be trying to tell us. Jesus' precept remains quite pertinent today with the vast temptations that society offers, such as wealth, power, excess, lust, etc. It seems that everywhere we turn, there is a new opportunity to submit to a new force or appoint a new master in our lives rather than our Lord, who invites us to follow Him.
Indeed, we may resonate well with Saint Paul's reflection on the thorn in his flesh, the weaknesses he has. Saint Paul challenges us to take up the obligation as Christians to let Christ triumph through us rather than lament our shortcomings. Hopefully, we show others that we are courageous enough to live the Gospel and say "yes" to the Lord's offers rather than to society's.
As you face the many challenges of the world, consider how you respond, not merely by what you say, how loudly you may pray, but by what others encounter from your example. Does your community see you following one Master, one God? How are you inviting others to follow Him?
My Lord and my God, I am Yours, help me live as one of Yours!
Reflection by:
Brother Lucius Amarillas
Did You Know...
Brother Lucius Amarillas, O.S.B., is a monk of Saint Leo Abbey. He was born in California but grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada where he served as a catechist in his parish. After coming to study at Saint Leo University, he decided to join the Benedictine monks at Saint Leo Abbey where he has recently professed his solemn vows. In the Abbey community, Lucius serves as Prior of the Monastary, the Abbot's right hand that assists him in caring for the monks and their needs. Br. Lucius is also an adjunct professor of theology at Saint Leo University.
All are invited to attend the ordination to the transitional diaconate of Brother Lucius Amarillas, O.S.B. on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Leo Abbey (33601 State Road 52, Saint Leo, FL 33574). Bishop Elias Lorenzo, OSB, a Benedictine from the Newark archdiocese, will preside. The ordination will also be available to watch via live stream at www.facebook.com/saintleoabbey. Please keep Brother Amarillas, O.S.B., in your prayers!
