August 22, 2012
Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Saint of the day
Saint Antoninus (d.186)
Saint Antonius held a very gruesome profession; he was a Roman public executioner. He was involved in the trial proceedings of Saint Eusebius. During the proceedings, Antonius received a vision, and converted to Christianity. Because he proclaimed himself a Christian, the tables were turned, and he was beheaded for his faith.
Reflection
Saint Antoninus is an incredible example of the power and love of God. His life shows both the unmatched force of God's love and the fact that no person, regardless of how terrible or evil he or she may seem, is beyond the reach of God. If Saint Antoninus, who spent his life killing innocent people, can be pursued and fervently love by God, imagine how much God must love you.
Prayer
Dear God, thank you for your incredible love. Help this love to infiltrate every facet of my being and deepen my dedication to you.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 421
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: White
Daily readings
Reading 1: Ezekiel 34:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6
Gospel: Matthew 20:1-16
View complete readings on USCCB.orgMeditations
Meditation for Responsorial Psalm
Sometimes you may feel all alone. At those times it would be so nice to have someone to take care of you--to solve all your problems and to be a faithful friend no matter what you did or what others said about you. Guess what! You do have someone like that, and you even know it when you stop and think about it. Psalm 23 is a famous prayer of confidence in the God who is always there for us. Most people today may not identify with sheep, but we can identify with the feeling that God's loving care makes all the difference when things get difficult. Pray Psalm 23 slowly and reflectively. Think about how each verse is true in your life. Consider memorizing this psalm so you can repeat it whenever you need reassurance of God's care. (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)