July 19, 2012
Thursday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Justa (d.287)
Saint Justa and her sister, Saint Rufina, earned their living by selling pottery. One day, they received a very large order for pottery from a wealthy customer. The sisters discovered that the pots would be used for pagan rituals, and smashed the wealthy customer's order, refusing to sell any of their wares to him. They were arrested for their faith, and condemned to death. Both Justa and her sister were martyred for their Christianity. Saint Justa and Saint Rufina are the patron saints of potters and of the city of Seville, Spain.
Reflection
It is easy for us to put up with something that is wrong if we aren't directly partaking in it, especially if we are making money. However, being an enabler to a sinful action is still wrong. Do I ever enable or profit from sinful actions when I have it in my power to stop them?
Prayer
Dear Lord, please help me to take a stand against sin and injustice, even if it is hard to do. Help me to lead by example, just as Saint Justa did.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 392
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: Isaiah 26:7-9, 12, 16-19
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 102:13-14ab and 15, 16-18, 19-21
Gospel: Matthew 11:28-30
View complete readings on USCCB.org