November 4, 2012 
Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Charles Borromeo (1538-1584)
Saint Charles was a bishop in Milan, Italy. His appointment as bishop was delayed because the Council of Trent needed his skill as a behind-the-scenes leader when serious disagreements occurred—something he could not offer if he had been a bishop attending the council. Charles believed that if the people were to live a good life they needed the good example of the clergy and bishops. He set a powerful example himself during the plague—which in many ways was like our AIDS epidemic today—by borrowing huge sums of money to feed those who were starving and minister to those who were dying. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Reflection
It is frustrating when plans that we have carefully made and gone through several times are delayed. It is also frustrating when we are made to wait for something that we desperately want. Saint Charles knew what it was like to wait for something that he really wanted. His appointment as bishop of Milan was delayed because the Council of Trent needed his skill as a behind-the-scenes leader. The next time you are made to wait, or your plans fall through, think of Saint Charles. Also, think about using your waiting time as prayer time.
Prayer
Pray to Saint Charles whenever you find your plans delayed or taking another direction. Ask him to help you see the good you can do in whatever circumstances you find yourself. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 152
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: Deuteronomy 6:2-6
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 18:2-3, 3-4, 47, 51
Reading 2: Hebrews 7:23-28
Gospel: Mark 12:28b-34
View complete readings on USCCB.orgMeditations
Meditation for Gospel
Loving God with our whole selves is difficult. What were the signs of love that Jesus recognized? Through his stories and teaching, we learn that we love God if we are honest, if we are generous, if we don't brag about our abilities, if we identify with the poor, if we are compassionate, if we are peacemakers, and if we are respectful of our parents and teachers. Loving our neighbor is easier to comprehend, but then Jesus throws in the challenge--do we love our neighbor as much as we love ourselves? What things do you do to show you have a healthy love of self? How is that related to loving our neighbor? List all the things you do to show you have a healthy love of self. Pray to Jesus to show you how to love your neighbor as yourself. (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)
