August 3, 2012 
Friday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time
Saint of the day
Saint Peter Julian Eymard (1811-1868)
Saint Peter Julian Eymard was born in La Mure d'Isere, France. Peter joined the seminary at Grenoble, and was ordained a priest in 1834. At first, Peter's father opposed his choice to pursue religious life, which made the decision difficult for Peter. Eventually, after serving as a parish priest for many years, he joined the Marists. He started the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament, which focused on perpetual Eucharistic adoration. Saint Peter Julian Eymard was beatified in 1925 and canonized in 1962.
Reflection
Saint Peter Julian Eymard chose to become a priest against his father's wishes. This was extremely difficult for Saint Peter, but he knew that he wanted to be a priest and that God was calling him to it. Saint Peter demonstrates how, sometimes, in choosing a path that agrees with our desires, beliefs and/or faith, we will encounter opposition from those we love. While it is important to consider the advice of those to whom we are closest, it is also important to be willing, after a careful examination, to continue on our journey confidently.
Prayer
Dear Jesus, please give me the wisdom to discern your will and the courage and confidence to carry out this will regardless of the opinions of others.
Liturgical season information
Lectionary: 405
Place in Year: Ordinary Time
Color of decorations and priest's vestments: Green
Daily readings
Reading 1: Jeremiah 26:1-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 69:5, 8-10, 14
Gospel: Matthew 13:54-58
View complete readings on USCCB.orgMeditations
Meditation for Gospel
Jesus was being who he was, and the people were offended and thought, "Who does he think he is?" Did you ever pretend to be different than you are in order to be accepted by a group or to impress someone? Studies have shown that some teenage girls pretend not to be smart so that boys will not feel threatened and will like them better. Some people will do silly, illegal, or even dangerous things to be accepted by a gang or a fraternity. Follow Jesus's example and be true to yourself and your values, even if it means not being accepted. In the coming days, when you are challenged to not be true to yourself, say in your mind, "Come, Holy Spirit, give me your gift of courage." (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)
